Marcell giddy about Bok return, rekindling friendships: 'You never take this for granted'

For the best part of a year, Marcell Coetzee had to regularly and politely bat away questions about his Springbok ambitions as well as a perception that the national coaching staff was perhaps ignoring him.

To his credit, leading the Bulls in their ultimately successful United Rugby Championship campaign was his priority.

Hearteningly, Coetzee's recall for Saturday's second Test against Wales in Bloemfontein has belatedly provided everyone a glimpse again of just how passionate the 31-year-old flanker still is about representing the national side.

"When I heard my name being read out a few weeks ago, it was as unbelievable as the first time," said the Bulls skipper.

"Believe me, you never take it for granted. I last played in 2019 and before that, there was a four-year gap between my Bok appearances, and in those breaks, you realise what you had when you were with the Boks and how much you want it back.

"Every Test is special, be it against the All Blacks or Wales. Every game brings its own uniqueness and it is up to you as an individual to be accountable for your own preparations and ensure you are ready."

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While Coetzee would have no problem forging relationships with various new teammates, he readily admitted that he's particularly excited to see Pieter-Steph du Toit and Eben Etzebeth.

"Being back in the system is phenomenal. When I first walked back into the camp, it was so special to see my old pals, guys like Eben and Pieter-Steph, and you know you are back in the family, and then you meet the faces that are new to you," he said.

"That's what the Springboks are all about - the blending together of different personalities."

Neatly