Butch James backs 20-year-old Vusi Moyo to shine on Springboks debut against Wales

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James also insisted that Handré Pollard never had anything to prove despite recent criticism upon his form with the Bulls, as Pollard raced back to top form against Scotland last weekend.

Rassie Erasmus has handed Moyo his first Test start for Saturday's Nations Championship clash with Wales in Durban, making the 20-year-old playmaker one of four Springbok debutants in an exciting new-look side.

Speaking on behalf of 10bet, the former Springbok fly-half believes Moyo's temperament is his biggest strength heading into one of the biggest games of his career.

"Fly-half is one of the toughest positions on the field because you're expected to make good decisions under constant pressure. What I've liked about Vusi is his composure. He doesn't look rushed, he's prepared to play what's in front of him and he backs his skill set."

James urged the youngster to trust the qualities that earned him his first international opportunity rather than trying to produce something spectacular on debut.

"For his debut, he doesn't need to do anything extraordinary. Just play his natural game, communicate well, manage the team around the park and enjoy the occasion. If he does that, the opportunities will come."

The Springbok legend also threw his support behind veteran fly-half Handré Pollard following his impressive display against Scotland, after a season in which some question marks were raised upon his form with the Bulls. James dismissed suggestions Pollard had been under pressure to prove himself.

"Handré has never really needed to prove anything to anyone. His record speaks for itself, and he's delivered on the biggest stages in world rugby."

He believes the double Rugby World Cup winner's greatest value extends beyond his performances on the pitch.

"Every player goes through periods where people question form, but the best players respond through performances, and that's exactly what he did. His experience, calmness under pressure and ability to make good decisions are invaluable, particularly when younger players are coming into the squad."

With Sacha Feinberg-Mngomezulu currently sidelined through injury, James believes Pollard's leadership remains vital for the world champions ahead of a blockbuster four-match Test series against the All Blacks.

"With Sacha unavailable, having someone like Pollard guiding the backline is hugely important, not only for what he brings on the field but also for the confidence he gives the players around him."