South Africa fly-half Andre Pretorius may have missed the recent Tests against Argentina, Wales and France through injury, but admits he is more than happy with his achievements in 2005.
The 27-year-old reclaimed the fly-half spot for the Springboks after three years in the international wilderness.
While he missed out on the last three Tests in November because of an ankle ligament tear, he remains the firm favourite for the number 10 jersey in Jake White’s team for 2006.
"It was a good year for me," Pretorius told Business Day.
"The way things turned out was a dream come true. This was one of those years when you look back and do not regret a thing. But the most important lesson I learned was that hard work pays off."
The ankle injury means Pretorius is likely to be sidelined until March, but the player is looking forward to getting back on the pitch and taking part in the new Super 14 campaign with the Cats.
"I am focusing on the Super 14 at the moment," Pretorius added.
"If I concentrate on securing a place in the Springbok squad it will take my focus off what needs to be done now.
"If I play well in the Super 14 my place in the Springbok team will take care of itself."
