DHL Western Province prop Pat Cilliers is determined to carry an Absa Currie Cup winner’s medal in his hand luggage on his journey to the south of France.
You’re a veteran of a few Absa Currie Cup Finals. What are the lessons that can be applied to this game?
“I played for the Golden Lions team that won the cup in 2011 and last year for DHL WP when we lost to the Sharks. The old adage that defence and discipline win finals applies, but it’s also about which team deals with the pressure the best.”
Will this be an emotional final for you, considering it’s the last game you’ll play for DHL WP?
“Yes. I’ve loved my stay here, so I’ll attach a lot of significance to it. But it’s an Absa Currie Cup Final, which in itself is huge. I’m not really looking at it as my last game. I view it as a Currie Cup Final that has to be won.”
How soon after the final will you be making your trip overseas?
“I’ve signed for Montpellier, in the south of France, and have to get there as soon as possible after the final. They’re right in the middle of their season.”
This must have been a special campaign for you, considering the injuries you have suffered over the past two seasons?
“I had quite a big shoulder operation last year and this year there were a few niggles, including a rib injury. But it’s been smooth sailing since the closing stages of our Vodacom Super Rugby campaign and very enjoyable. We’ve had a successful run-in, but now really need to win the cup.”
What will you miss most about the Mother City?
“Geez, that’s a difficult one. The Western Cape has so much to offer. I’ve got awesome teammates and I’m sitting on the beach in Camps Bay as we speak! Cape Town is a lovely city, with the mountain and surrounding wine routes. But, that aside, I’ve also forged some close friendships and the diversity of the supporters here is awesome. The big crowds are quite unique in South Africa and I know all the players appreciate them.”
Are you leaving DHL WP as a strong union with a bright future?
“Yes, very much so. You don’t get much better than having your senior, U21 and U19 teams in their respective finals. We made some great strides with the addition of Gert Smal as Director of Rugby and Henning Gericke as psychologist. I can see DHL WP and the DHL Stormers doing really well in the near future.”
Is there any game or moment that you can pinpoint as your highlight during your time here?
“I’m hoping it’s going to be this final! I haven’t won a trophy here yet, so I’m keeping my fingers crossed! We went through some tough times last year, but then had a long unbeaten run through to the Currie Cup final, which was really special. Unfortunately, we lost the final and that still stings every day! This year we had our backs to the wall after difficult times in Super Rugby and we’ve bounced back nicely. I’ve had lots of special moments and made great friends along the way.”
Give us your thoughts on young Frans Malherbe, who is likely to carry the torch as tighthead prop for DHL WP and the DHL Stormers?
“He’s an awesome player, and he’s been unfortunate in that he’s had a lot of bad luck with injuries. I don’t think he’s just holding the torch for Province, but also for South Africa. He’s a huge talent and, on top of that, a great bloke.”
You seem like quite a jovial fellow. Did you have to become more serious as the team’s vice-captain or was it a case of inspiring the guys with your sense of humour?
“I must say I’ve really enjoyed the challenge of leadership. I like joking around, but it’s not as if I view my job as a joke. I realised it came with a lot of responsibility and it was good to see the young guys develop. A guy like Alistair Vermaak has come from nowhere to make his mark in Super Rugby and our Currie Cup campaign. It’s great to see a guy like that relishing the moment.”
What was it like playing under Juan de Jongh’s captaincy?
“He’s been an absolute revelation. The thing is, he leads in the best possible way, which is by example, and he’s had another awesome season – excelling on defence and attack. I have a huge amount of respect for him.”
DHL Western Province Matchday Magazine
