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Inspired by brother’s aspirations, the Test against touring England could prove a ‘Milestone Match’
HERMAN GIBBS
26 June 2026 – As the versatile Springbok hero Damian Willemse gears up to potentially earn his 50th cap at Ellis Park against England on 4 July, he is not just chasing a personal milestone; he’s embracing a legacy.
The double World Cup winner (2019 in Japan, 2023 in France) and celebrated fullback, Willemse, is determined to honour the dreams of his brother, Ramone Samuels, who aspired to play rugby at the highest level.
Ramone Samuels is a former professional rugby player who played as a hooker for the Stormers, Western Province and the Golden Lions. Despite having different surnames, the two are full brothers. Samuels took their mother’s surname due to strict family traditions at the time of his birth.
Proudly sharing the journey that led him to this point, Willemse reminisced about the pair’s boyhood escapades, where they would walk across railway tracks purely for the love of the game.
Speaking to host Kingsley Wheaton on The Smokeless Word podcast, Willemse shared some thoughts. “He’s very dear and close to me. And yeah, I’m living his dream too. In a way, his dream has become mine,” Willemse shared, his voice resonating with passion.
An injury prematurely ended Samuels’ career, but the bond of brotherhood was strong and remains unbroken.
As he looks toward the match against touring England, the Springbok star acknowledges the weight of the occasion.
“God willing, it will be against England. I need to play myself into the team and play well,” he stated with hope, recognising the importance of being in peak form to secure his spot in the squad. His commitment to playing well and making a mark at this pivotal juncture is evident.
In tandem with physical prowess, Willemse also highlighted a growing understanding in rugby that the battle often lies as much in mental strength as it does in physical capability.
“The mental side of the game is massive. It’s more mental and physical nowadays because physically every player can do it,” he expressed, reflecting the evolving dynamics of rugby at the elite level.
Some Captivating Insights:
Difficulties Training Growing Up
Reflecting on his childhood, the rugby star reveals the challenges he faced with a lack of resources, stating that his primary school had “not a blade of grass.” This highlights the barriers many young athletes encounter when pursuing their passions.
What Makes Him Special
When asked about his uniqueness, he shared, “I think I just love people.” He emphasised the importance of human connection in professional sports, especially given the isolation that can arise as athletes navigate the scrutiny of social media and public perception.
Rugby and Post-Apartheid Changes
Although born after apartheid, he acknowledged the profound impact of Captain Siya Kolisi’s leadership on the sport. His appointment has transformed the rugby landscape, inspiring players of all races and touching the lives of millions of children across South Africa.
Staying Grounded: Avoiding Complacency
The South African international team maintains its edge through honesty and healthy competition. The star believes that their commitment to honesty strengthens their bond and drives them to strive for excellence continually.
Strategic Instincts on the Field
He recounted a pivotal moment during the 2023 Rugby World Cup quarter-final against France, revealing the unexpected nature of calling a mark and opting for a scrum. He noted that “No one saw it coming,” showcasing the blend of strategy and instinct that defines high-level rugby.
Almost Choosing Cricket Instead
Surprisingly, this double World Cup winner nearly pursued a cricket career, dreaming of playing at Lord’s or participating in county cricket in England or Australia. Despite this, he recognised that his true calling was in rugby.
Reflecting on the 2021 British and Irish Lions Tour
Looking back at the monumental 2021 British and Irish Lions tour, he confessed that it remains a significant experience. “Absolutely massive,” he shared, expressing that he still feels goosebumps when watching some of the games again.
The Smokeless Word, hosted by British American Tobacco executive Kingsley Wheaton, explores leadership, transformation and bold thinking.
Since its launch, the show has reached 2 million completed listens across 21 episodes, quickly establishing itself as a distinctive and ambitious voice in the podcast landscape.