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Cape Town - Utility back Lionel Mapoe is not perturbed after being excluded from the Springbok squad for their Australasian tour in the Rugby Championship.
Mapoe scored two tries when he came on as a substitute for winger Makazole Mapimpi in the Test against Argentina in Mendoza late last month.
The Boks lost 32-19 and Mapoe was one of the players released to play Currie Cup rugby.
“I’d rather view it in a positive light. It gives me the opportunity to get enough matches under my belt to sharpen up my game. I also feel I have nothing to prove from a Springbok perspective. It’s something that happens and you have to be able to take it,” Mapoe told Netwerk24.
The 30-year-old, who boasts 14 Test caps, was back at centre last weekend when the Golden Lions beat the Free State Cheetahs 47-14 at Ellis Park (15:00 kick-off).
“I enjoy playing Currie Cup rugby. It’s the first time in three years that I can play for the Lions in this competition. All my focus is now here and I’m giving my all to the team,” the 30-year-old added.
In their next assignment, the Golden Lions host Western Province at Ellis Park this weekend.
Both line-ups will be named on Thursday.
