Springbok scrum-half Grant Williams made his eagerly anticipated return to the rugby field this past weekend, marking the occasion by crossing the try line. The match against Italy was his first appearance in three months, following a significant injury layoff.
Returning from any period away from the game can be a nervy experience, a fact Williams readily admitted. Scoring a try early on certainly helped to settle those jitters, providing an immediate positive impact upon his comeback.
However, in a display of characteristic modesty – or perhaps a touch of scrum-half playfulness – Williams quickly deflected praise for the score. He stated quite plainly after the match, “I stole a try.” Expanding on this, he clarified that he felt the five points “rightfully belonged” to his experienced teammate, Willie le Roux, who was also involved in the scoring play.
Williams had been sidelined for three months recovering from a neck injury, a considerable period for any professional athlete. His successful return, highlighted by getting on the scoreboard, is a significant step in his recovery process.
Looking beyond this immediate return, Williams conveyed his readiness for the challenges ahead. Having put the injury behind him, he stated he is now prepared to compete vigorously for a starting position within the squad.
His humble take on the try, crediting a teammate even in a personal moment of success after injury, underscores a team-first mentality as he re-joins the playing ranks and sets his sights on regaining full match fitness and form.
