It didn’t take long for Tian Schoeman to confess that the bitterly cold climate is going to take some getting used to. The out-side half is understandably accustomed to the much warmer temperatures offered in South Africa; which was reinforced when he added that he’d never seen snow before last weeks flurry.

What is clear is that Schoeman’s UK transition in rugby terms has been much less of a shock. After a sustained period of quarantine, the play-maker is quickly getting up to speed on the pitch. Bath Rugby fans will have seen a glimpse of his attacking and defensive capabilities after he made his Club debut in the 61st minute against Harlequins last weekend.

The notable peroxide hair-highlights helped fans identify the new-comer as he set up Tom de Glanville with a well worked try in the South-East corner of the Rec. Having not played a game in nearly 7 weeks, Schoeman confessed that his body felt the after-effects of the physical encounter on Sunday morning.

The 29 year-old, who has also played in the Pro 14, Currie Cup and Super Rugby (for the Cheetahs and Bulls respectively) and a brief stint for Top 14 side Bordeaux Bègles, pointed out that the English League is comparatively much more structured than other competitions he’s previously been a part of.

Whereas before, the pace is perhaps quicker and teams are reliant on a moment of individual brilliance, the Gallagher Premiership is more controlled. Schoeman, succinctly summarises his overview of how to get the better off the opposition in our domestic league by stating that, "The winner is usually the team that makes the least number of mistakes."

One player within the squad who Tian won’t have had to introduce himself to is that of former Cheetahs and now Bath hooker Jacques du Toit. The outside half recognised his positive human qualities as well as what fans can expect to see when the front-rower takes to the field. The Pretoria-born Schoeman is pleased to have du Toit on his side, crediting his attacking flair and strong set-piece ability as key components to his game.

Tian Schoeman reflects on his first few weeks in the South-West

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