20 Questions: Nic Groom – Northampton scrum-half

How do you look back at Northampton‘s Champions Cup campaign?
It’s over now. Obviously we wanted to progress but we didn’t. We’ve learnt a lot from our games in Europe and hopefully we can move forward.
Was it four wins on the bounce until Montpellier last weekend?
We’d won our last three league games and then Castres in the Cup. We’re looking for more consistency and the next few weeks will show us where we stand as a squad.
Can you explain Saints up and down season so far?
A lot is down to confidence. We could have won some of the games we lost and once you lose one you lose two usually. Over analysing things can’t be good either.
Can Saints make the Premiership semi-finals?
That’s our goal now and there’s still a chance for us to finish in the top four. The next six to eight weeks will be crucial. Our squad depth will be tested and we’ll have to play well to win games.
Is it easy for you to speak out at as a new player?
I just put my head down and work hard. Slowly but surely I’m getting more involved with discussions which is crucial for my position.
Happy with your own season so far?
I’m quite happy with my performances. A tough season is where you show what you’re made of and I’m sure I’ll be a better player for it.
How much pressure is on you as the scrum-half?
If anyone is going to keep things together it’s the scrum-half so it’s crucial for me to keep my composure at all times even when it’s not going our way.
It has already been fifteen games for you?
I’ve been pretty happy with the amount of game time I’ve got this season already and I’m getting used to how things work in Europe.
What do you make of English club rugby?
I really enjoy it. There is so much pressure on the result here. There is so much riding on the results every weekend whether that’s pushing for the play-offs or battling for relegation.
Biggest difference with Super Rugby?
Everyone is asking me that and I’m not too sure yet. But the pressure demands more from the players both physically and mentally.
Why did you leave the Stormers?
I had another year on my contract but the offer from Northampton came and I thought it was the right move for me to challenge myself out of South Africa and I’ve always wanted to play in England.
Tough year for South African rugby?
I was only involved in training camps so it’s hard for me to comment but it must have been tough given the results.
Can the Boks turn things around?
Rugby needs to have a strong Springboks side competing at the highest level. Hopefully they’ll be back at their best soon enough.
Are you disappointed not be capped?
Disappointed is probably the wrong word. I had two very good seasons with the Stormers and I thought I was good enough but maybe it wasn’t my time. I’m still young at 26 so maybe I’ll have another shot at it in the future.
Your long term goals?
Being one of the best scrum-halves in the world but you only live your career one contract at a time as a player. So all I’m worried about is to help Northampton win things. I’ve only been here a few months but it’s obvious to me what the club means to this town and I’d like to give something back to the fans.
If not rugby, what would you be doing?
I’d love to start my own business and help the community back home.
Involved with any charities?
I’m a director at Woza Coffee where we run a barista course for unemployed young people from townships in South Africa and then get them a job in different coffee shops.
Three special dinner guests?
Nelson Mandella, Ed Sheeran and Will Ferrell.
Best and worst banter at Saints?
No one gets my South African humour so I’ll take worst but James Wilson is pretty funny.
Best and worst dressed?
Being the smallest and new to the club I’m not sure I should stitch anyone up just yet so I’ll just give best to Stephen Myler.