{
  "id": 18066677,
  "title": "Krappie ‘thankful’ for competition from other in-form scrumhalves",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/11/04/krappie-thankful-for-competition-from-other-in-form-scrumhalves",
  "topic": "world",
  "section": "World",
  "published": "2026-11-04T04:38:03.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "The Citizen",
    "slug": "the-citizen",
    "url": "https://www.citizen.co.za/sport/rugby/krappie-morne-van-berg-thankful-competition-springbok-scrumhalves/"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "Morné van den Berg, Springbok No 9, is expressing gratitude for the competition from other skilled scrumhalves as he prepares for South Africa's upcoming Nations Championship match against Italy. Despite missing the start of the international season due to a nearly three-month injury, Van den Berg feels sharper and more confident, crediting the pressure for driving his performance. He notes that with six tries and a conversion in just 10 Tests, having Cobus Reinach and Grant Williams in the squad adds to the competitive atmosphere. The 29-year-old acknowledges the mood in the camp remains positive, with players focusing on one week at a time rather than the eventual World Cup. Van den Berg encourages his teammates to avoid overthinking their future selection, emphasizing the positive impact of healthy competition.",
  "summary": "Morné van den Berg believes the pressure to earn a spot in the Springbok team makes a player better.",
  "key_points": [
    "Morné van den Berg thanks competition from Cobus Reinach and Grant Williams.",
    "Injured for three months, he feels sharper and more confident.",
    "Team focuses on one week at a time, avoiding overthinking selection."
  ],
  "editors_take": null,
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 1,
    "also_reported_by": []
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}