Cameron Hanekom, the Bulls’ number 8 ranked Wales forward, insists he is not focusing on international rugby despite the prospect of an international tug of war.

The powerful South African impressed in the opening weeks of the Rugby United Championship with a man-of-the-match performance against the Scarlets and a dynamic cameo against Cardiff as Warren Gatland watched.

The balance was slightly clouded by a yellow card against Edinburgh on Friday night, but the 21-year-old will certainly be a strong addition to the Wales squad, as Gatland’s presence at the Arms Park is likely to be at least less on paper. . , focused on tracking down Hanekom.

As for the Springbok’s chances, Dwayne Vermeulen’s retirement means Rassie Erasmus will also be in the hunt for the number 8.

However, he now insists he did not consider playing for South Africa or Wales, saying it would open his mind to an “infinite cycle of possibilities” that could distract him from playing for the Bulls.

“Well, right now I’m completely focused on doing my job here with the Bulls,” Hanekom said. “We are participating in one of the most difficult competitions and we have set goals that require my full attention.

“I try to keep the main thing as the main thing now. This is every young person’s dream.

“I heard there is talk (of Wales). I don’t want to get caught talking about what would be or what could happen.

“Otherwise, I could open my mind to a cycle of infinite possibilities that could take me away from my current job. As I said before, I’d rather let the boss remain the boss for now. And if something happens in the future, I will take it as it comes.”

Regardless of whether he bets on Wales or the Springboks, conversations about his right to wear the red shirt will at least lead to a conversation about his heritage with his maternal relatives.

“My grandmother was born and raised in Wales,” he adds. “They moved to Wales.

“I don’t know when. I haven’t talked to them in a while, but I think I’ll talk to them and ask them about it!”

His older brother, Storm, was a hooker who was once on Wales’ under-19 radar. He spent a season training with the Dragons before joining Nottingham after being released.

“But now he’s left rugby. It’s just me now. “My father and grandfather played, but not at national or international level.”

When it comes to what Hanekom offers as a player, the full-back offers a powerful position that is not always a good fit for Wales.

“I would like to be characterized as an all-rounder,” he explained. “I’m very versatile. I carry weight, but I also look for places. My main strengths are the ability to carry and read the game.”

Whatever Hanekom’s future holds on the international stage, it is clear his focus is on the Bulls given their strong start to the season. Breaking into Jake White’s squad is a difficult task as the Baby Boks face stiff competition for a starting spot.

“It feels great, but now it’s hard to stay there,” he said. “Trying to stay on top, keep my head down and work harder and harder to get that perfect game we all talk about.

“There are a lot of very hard workers there. Lots of healthy competition. This keeps you alert and prevents you from getting comfortable. You have to keep working hard.

“My grandmother and everyone are very impressed and proud of me, but there is still a lot of work to do. I just want to keep my head down and keep working to keep eighth place.”