Pete Murison from iafrica.com did an interview with Stephen Sykes and this is what he had to say….

Personally, 2009 has been a big year for Sykes. Having just missed out on a Springbok cap earlier in the year, the Sharks Academy product has established himself as a key part of John Plumtree’s squad.

“It’s just nice getting the opportunity and getting game time so you can express yourself. If somebody trusts in you, like the coaches at the Sharks, if they believe in me, it makes it so much easier for you to play good rugby. Your teammates are behind you all the way as well.”

A late call-up to the squad, Sykes was named on the bench for South Africa for their final test against the British and Irish Lions but did not get any time of the pitch as the Springboks went down 28-9.

Even before that though, the lock had enjoyed appearances for both the Springbok XV and the Emerging side.

“It was actually a great surprise for me after the Super 14 when they said I was in the Springbok XV which played against Namibia and when I got selected for the Emerging Springboks that was a privilege.

“Definitely one of the biggest highlight [of my career] was when they called me and told me I was on the bench for the third test against the British and Irish Lions. Unfortunately I didn’t go on but hopefully my time will come soon.”

With the big clash in Kimberley the first item on his agenda, Sykes makes no secret about his desire to once again be a part of the Springbok squad.

“At the moment I am just looking at winning the Currie Cup again with the Sharks and then to go on the end of year tour with the Springboks.

“Just to play international rugby is one of my main goals I would like to achieve – whether it is now or next year, I’ll just keep working until my time will come.”