Burden keen for Bok challenge
Burden left the Sharks in 2012 – joining European Champions Toulon in the South of France. The hooker is back in the country ahead of the Bok vs World XV clash on July 11 in Cape Town.
The 30-year-old reflected on his time at Toulon, likening the Mediterrenean seaside town to Durban. During his time in France, Toulon has won the European Cup (formerly known as the Heineken Cup) for three consecutive years.
“It’s gone very quickly but I’ve had a hell of a time. It’s a fantastic setup in Toulon – a beautiful place right on the beach, very similar to Durban in many ways. We had a few South Africans there as well so they were very welcoming when I first joined the club so it was very easy to settle in and begin a new chapter,” Burden said.
He joins former Springboks Bakkies Botha, Gurthrö Steenkamp, JJ Engelbrecht and Flip van der Merwe in the World XV side. While he goes up against his former countrymen, Burden is more excited to give his Toulon teammates fitting send-offs.
“It’s fantastic, these games are special. They are extra special because it’s one of the last games Bakkies, Ali Williams and Carl Hayman so in regards to that it’s a game I’m really looking forward just to run out one more time with the boys.”
“We’ve got another World XV game a month after that. It’s going to be fantastic, we played last year and we had a good run. The first 40 minutes went pretty well then we fell apart in the second half. It’s not a game where the score is everything; it’s all about giving the Boks a good game and preparation for the season ahead. It’s a great week, coming together with a great bunch of okes, we’ve got a good team, and we’re going to have a lot of fun and we’re looking forward to the game,” Burden said.
As for his own future, Burden said he was looking forward to making a successful recovery from injury.
“I’ve just come out back from an injury so I haven’t had as much game time as I’ve wanted. So for me it’s about getting back on the field, getting the enjoyment back and getting some games under the belt – starting with this one against the Boks. Like I said it’s a special game so it’s going to mean a lot for the boys. Especially the Toulon players playing with Carl, Bakkies and Ali – it’s our last send off from us to them.”
On a parting note, the former Sharks hooker weighed-in on the current state of affairs in Durban. Burden said he was confident the Union will enjoy a successful Currie Cup with the players at their disposal.
“There has been a lot of changes, new coaches, new staff and a lot of players coming and going. In terms of that, it’s very unsettling for the players and squad. But with regards to the infrastructure, setup, atmosphere and quality of players that they still have there – I’m very positive about the future.”
(File Photo: Gallo Images)
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