Those factors will not part of the Blitzboks’ mind-set this week according to Gans, who will be playing in his 12th tournament for South Africa.
“We actually decided a year or two ago to name this leg of the World Series the ‘No Excuses Tour’.
"Coach Neil Powell said to us we can complain about the time zone disturbance and the long hours on the road, or we can embrace the challenge and get the job done. The first time we followed that approach, the team won in Wellington and last year we did very well in Hamilton as well."
It will be the same this week, he confirmed.
“The same approach applies this time around. Yes, it is the biggest turnaround for us when it comes to time zones during the series, but we will not allow that to impact on us.”
The 21-year-old midfielder made a timely return to the Blitzbok team, having recovered from a hand injury that ruled him out of the opening two tournaments in Dubai and Cape Town, where the South Africans placed sixth and third respectively. He will focus on contribution to the team's cause, rather than personal glory.“It is great to be back as it’s always such an honour to play for this team and to represent our country,” said Gans.
“I worked hard to get back to full fitness again, so it is pleasing to be back on the field playing.”
Gans showed good improvement during recent outings for the team, growing in his role in the midfield amongst a host of world stars around him.
“This trip is all about contributing to the team,” said Gans.
