Steadfast Gans rules out Blitzboks reunion, even in tough Bulls times: 'You must back yourself'

Stedman Gans and the Blitzboks might have been forgiven, if during their respective tough moments this season, they sought comfort in each other’s arms again.

But the Bulls midfielder is steadfast that he won’t seek refuge back in the seven-player game, where he made his name, even if things get tough at Loftus, as they have been in parts this season.

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"You have to back yourself," Gans told News24.

"Someone told me the other day, you can’t keep looking back because, even if you go back now, it’s not going to be the same as when you left.

"I have to be focused where I am at the moment. And make sure I make this a success because this is going to be my future."

Gans wasn’t always the starter he has become every week for the Bulls as he has become in each of the Bulls’ previous two matches against the Pumas and Lions. He is also down to start against the Griffons in the Currie Cup at Loftus on Friday night (17:00).

Earlier this season, especially in the United Rugby Championship (URC), Gans couldn’t buy a place in the match 23, much less in the starting XV.

He admitted that those moments tested his resolve, but he was committed to regaining director of rugby Jake White’s confidence. 

"It is difficult to be on the sidelines, obviously," said Gans.

"As a rugby player, you wanna be on the field, especially if you’re not injured and it’s because of selection. It makes it tough.

"You just have to take onus that it’s your responsibility to give the coaches confidence to put you on the field and that’s what I had to do: to rock up at training with a good attitude, train well constantly and that’s how coaches get confidence.

"They give you five, 10