Injuries to Lood de Jager and Jean Kleyn, who were ahead of him on the pecking order, has opened the door for Moerat to put his hand up for selection.
The 26-year-old Moerat has made just four Bok appearances since making his debut in 2022, the last off the bench, but has been in the system over the past few years and now has a chance to solidify himself in the Bok set-up over the next month. Despite that Moerat is enjoying the pressure of trying to prove himself among the world’s best second rowers, and is happy to help the main squad prepare if he isn’t in the mix for selection.“It is any player’s goal to be involved in the 23-man team every week. I have to make the most of every opportunity. The only way to repay the coaches for their trust in me is to show on the playing field that I am good enough for the task,” explained Moerat.
“Eben is the best in the world, and being able to rub shoulders with him for the last few years was exceptional. He is a master at what he does. There is mutual respect. It’s very easy to chat with Eben, and you’d be a fool not to tap into his knowledge,” said Moerat.