The world of rugby is a captivating arena, and Jesse Kriel, a double World Cup winner, is a testament to its allure. As the captain of the Yokohama Canon Eagles, Kriel has etched his name in the sport's history, vowing to stay in Japan until he leads his team to League One glory. This commitment is a testament to his passion and dedication, which are at the heart of his rugby journey.
Kriel's journey with the Eagles has been a challenging yet rewarding one. At 32 years old, he has already achieved much, scoring eight tries in 13 appearances this season. Despite a disappointing 10th-place finish, the team's resilience shone through, especially in their three-match winning streak in April and May, which lifted them away from the relegation play-off zone. This season's challenges have been a learning curve, and Kriel is eager to build on these lessons.
The Eagles' future looks bright, and Kriel's presence is a significant factor in this optimism. He believes in the team's potential, stating, 'I'm confident that we're building a team that can win in the end, and everyone has that mindset.' This mindset is crucial, as it reflects a collective determination to succeed.
Kriel's love for the Japanese style of rugby is evident in his words. He admires the high skill level and fast tempo, and the deep understanding of the game displayed by Japanese players, especially the veterans. This appreciation for the local style of play is a testament to his respect for the sport's global diversity.
Captaining the team has been a new experience for Kriel, one that has changed the weight of responsibility. However, he has received solid support from other leaders, including CTB Yusuke Kajimura, SO Yu Tamura, FL Billy Harmon, and HO Yusuke Niwai. Their guidance and experience have been invaluable, contributing to Kriel's growth as a leader and his confidence as a captain.
The season's challenges have not deterred Kriel, but rather fueled his determination. He acknowledges the tough start and the initial goal of finishing in the top six, which was not achieved. Yet, the team's resilience and the pride in their playing style, even against top teams, are a source of satisfaction. Kriel understands the need for consistency and is already looking forward to implementing this in the upcoming season.
As Kriel's attention turns to Test rugby for his country and the inaugural Nations Championship campaign, his commitment to the Eagles remains unwavering. He embraces the lifestyle of playing rugby for 11 months out of the year, finding motivation in his passion for the sport. The departure of Faf de Klerk, a long-time Springboks teammate, is a bittersweet moment. Kriel acknowledges de Klerk's impact on the Eagles and Japanese rugby, expressing sadness at his departure while also understanding the reasons behind it.
Kriel's goal is clear: to return to Yokohama in peak condition and lead the club to honors next season. He is determined to achieve this, stating, 'I am certain of it, and I promise. I don't make light promises.' This commitment is a testament to his character and his unwavering dedication to the sport and his team.
In conclusion, Jesse Kriel's journey with the Yokohama Canon Eagles is a captivating tale of determination, passion, and respect for the sport. His commitment to staying in Japan until he wins a title is a powerful statement, and his influence on the team and the sport is undeniable. As he continues his rugby career, Kriel's impact will undoubtedly leave a lasting legacy.
