Getting serious about sevens
9 Dec 2010
SIMON BORCHARDT says sevens will never matter to the majority of South African rugby fans as long as the national team is made up of high-school graduates and provincial rejects.
A week ago, a poll on keo.co.za asked: ‘Do you care about the IRB Sevens World Series?’ Of the 994 readers who voted over the next two days, 71% said no.
That didn’t surprise me. After all, why should fans care about a tournament that doesn’t involve top-quality players?
In a recent interview with SA Rugby magazine, Bok Sevens coach Paul Treu told the story of a meeting he had with Rassie Erasmus about calling up two WP U21 players to the sevens squad. Erasmus turned down the request, saying there was a chance they’d be needed in Super Rugby.
You have to feel sorry for Treu. He cannot select any contracted provincial player without the permission of the province, and is forced to rely on youngsters who aren’t yet ready to play professional rugby or older guys who can no longer command a starting place at their unions.
I don’t buy the argument that our sevens players want to be sevens specialists because they prefer the format to 15-man rugby. When Fabian Juries, a sevens legend, was offered a contract with the Cheetahs, he didn’t hesitate to put pen to paper. Ex-SA Sevens captain Mzwandile Stick did the same when Eastern Province – a First Division Currie Cup team – came calling. In this country, representing the national sevens side is a consolation prize and nothing more.
That would change, though, if Treu was allowed to pick Vodacom Cup players for the Sevens World Series and Saru paid those unions compensation. How can a B-grade provincial competition that nobody cares about be a higher priority than an international series?
Treu should also be allowed to pick two or three Boks for the South African leg of the World Series in December. If the event is moved from George to PE or Cape Town next year, the organisers will have to attract crowds of 45,000 a day – not just 8,000 – and will therefore need crowd pullers like Gio Aplon and Ryan Kankowski (two former sevens players who have gone on to bigger and better things).
Before I get an e-mail from Prof Tim Noakes about burnout, Treu obviously wouldn’t be allowed to pick someone who’s played more than 1,400 minutes that season and desperately needs a break. Those who are selected would only play a maximum of 90 minutes of sevens rugby if South Africa reached the final, and sevens is obviously a lot less physical than the 15-man game.
Getting top-quality players (provincial and Boks) involved in the Sevens World Series from the 2011-12 season would make it that much easier for them to be brought into an Olympic Games squad that can realistically expect to win a gold medal in 2016.
Yes, sevens is a lot of fun, but it’s time we got serious about it.
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194 Comments
9 Dec 2010, 12:47 pm
Getting serious right about now.
9 Dec 2010, 12:48 pm
@iori Yagami : Sorry forgot about the Dragons from the west.
9 Dec 2010, 12:51 pm
So what are you saying in this article? If the value of the sevens game cannot be appreciated by the general SA rugby supporter, the knock-on effect will be felt in the 15 man game.
9 Dec 2010, 13:10 pm
Sevens is a festival type game. Not to be taken too seriously, mild entertainment only. No big contests, the game is over in a flash, really not that much that is amazing about it. Will never, for me, compare to the 15 man game.
It’s like watching a bunch of sportsmen do the “suikerkaskenades” back in the day. Fun when there’s nothing else to watch, but when Die Man Van Staal came on it’s channel switching time….
9 Dec 2010, 13:13 pm
None of the other top rugby nations select their best players Simon.
Sevens rugby is just not that important and will never be!!
9 Dec 2010, 13:24 pm
SA didn’t even have a decent team at the Common Wealth games. SARU don’t give a ratsass about the format.
9 Dec 2010, 13:31 pm
@wpw : It will by 2016 at the Olympics. Can imagine Russia and USA becoming big threats in five years time as they will want to win gold – things will change.
9 Dec 2010, 13:37 pm
@seamus : If that’s the case then SA should just scrap its sevens team.
9 Dec 2010, 13:46 pm
@Simon : I actually think that it has it’s place, but as I’ve mentioned above, it’s possibly even below Currie Cup Level for me in terms of importance. Good for honing running and handling skills, and also tackling as a slipped tackel often results in a try, but it’s for me a “development” role really.
9 Dec 2010, 13:47 pm
@stormersboy : #4 You will never fully understand the importance 7′s plays in skills developement.
As a simple test. Play the best 7 Bok baackline players against the best 7 backline players of either the AB’s or Wallabies.
You’ll soon realise why the Bok wings don’t score as much tries.
9 Dec 2010, 13:48 pm
Sevens is pretty much the same as 20 overs cricket.
People want to see amazing tries and big sixes. the problem however is that amazing tries and big sixes get devalued if they happen 10 times in each game, hence the loss of interest.
9 Dec 2010, 13:51 pm
@pompies2 : Read my post 9. I understand plenty. I just don’t enjoy it. That was what the earlier post is about. As far as it’s importance is concerned, if it had that great an influence, I’m sure the coaches would have them practicing skills drills that mimick 7′s. Oh, wait…….
9 Dec 2010, 13:51 pm
@seamus : Come on guy – SARU (like any company that relies on public support to generate income) has to concentrate on where the money is. I think @stormersboy comment above is how many Saffas feel.
I personally love going to the 7s, its a great day out and great fun, but doesnt come close to intensity or importance of a Union test.
However, we could change that if our 7s team became more competitive and serious. Didnt we win it in 2009? It had a lot more coverage and prestige, and we were proud of the guys.
Didnt that lead to Aplon, Basson, Raubenheimer and a few other guys getting into CC teams and onto Boks?
9 Dec 2010, 13:52 pm
New Zealand picks their players from the ITM cup for Sevens…Hosea Gear has a Delhi Commonwealth Gold Medal. DJ Forbes plays for Counties Manukau, Kurt Baker plays fullback for Taranaki, Save Tokula plays for the Wellington Lions and has turned out for the Chiefs – i think, Zar Lawrence plays wing for Bay of Plenty…
9 Dec 2010, 13:56 pm
A game that i would most definetly watch is prop sevens. the bigger the better.
9 Dec 2010, 13:59 pm
A game i would be interested in is Prop sevens. Bigger is better!
9 Dec 2010, 13:59 pm
@Transformation :
I get what you’re saying but none of those players with the exception of Gear are really top players.
9 Dec 2010, 14:00 pm
sorry, some double posting goodness
9 Dec 2010, 14:00 pm
@wpw : but they’re certainly not high school graduates…
9 Dec 2010, 14:04 pm
@Transformation :
Yeah but Simon is a tool, didn’t you know??
9 Dec 2010, 14:04 pm
@stormersboy : #12 As a point of focus, it would be of huge benefit if the 7′s game is developed at school level. It elimites the size factor (doesn’t mean bigger boys will struggle) and it promotes emphasis on ball possession, defence,running and passing skills.
9 Dec 2010, 14:07 pm
@pompies2 : “Good for honing running and handling skills, and also tackling as a slipped tackel often results in a try, but it’s for me a “development” role really.”
So pretty much what I said then?
9 Dec 2010, 14:10 pm
@stormersboy : You still need to compete at an advanced level though, so that the transition to provincial, franchise or international level is eased without having to worry to much on the players skills. Buys some time to develope other aspects of an individuals play.
9 Dec 2010, 14:12 pm
@pompies2 : 23 fair comment.
9 Dec 2010, 14:19 pm
I remember watching Fabien Juries when he made his comeback to sevens (last year I think) after he had played the 15-man game for a year or so…and he was HOPELESSLY off the pace. I think the fitness requirements between the two are a little different. A winger in the 15 man game can conceivably go some time without really doing anything of much substance whereas sevens is all out action.
9 Dec 2010, 14:20 pm
@pompies2 : @stormersboy : where do the fijians who regularly morer everyone play outside of sevens…
9 Dec 2010, 14:28 pm
@Transformation : Also a fair comment. Who’s probably the best 7′s player of all time? That Fijian Serevi. He was genius back in the day before anyone else knew what a goose step was, but was mostly unable to translate that form into the 15 man game to any real degree.
I think that the examples of great internationals who were first great 7′s players will be the exception only.
9 Dec 2010, 14:34 pm
@Transformation : quite a few of them play in france. Fiji’s approach to the 7′s game is also vastly different to the Boks. They don’t use it as a means to develope players for the 15′s game. Evidence of that can be seen in the age of some of their players. The AB’s have a mix of ‘permanent’ 7′s players and players identified for 15′s who’s skills will be polished.
SA tries a similar approach, but are less effective due to 7′s not really being played at school level
I remember a few years back at the Villagers schools 7′s an top NZ secondary school wiping the floor with all the ‘rugby’ schools in the province. Some of these schools had craven week and SA schools players. In fact, Paul Delport might even have been on the receiving end.
9 Dec 2010, 14:39 pm
The lack of structure in 7′s leads to a simplicity that will always struggle to captivate the masses for an extended period of time.
Personally, and I know Treu would probably stab me for this, but I see it as an alternative route for players who aren’t picked up by the scouts and signed by unions who are looking to get into the Currie Cup and make a sustained living playing rugby. It’s a second route of entry for those with pace and handling skills that didn’t quite cut if first time round.
9 Dec 2010, 14:44 pm
Also, with regard to player burnout in the article, yes the physicality is far less but anyone who’s ever played 7′s will testify to the intense fitness levels required. The games are shorter, but my God do you run! Helluva lot more turf to cover when there’s only 7 of you!
Also, not all players come back better off after 7′s and some DO opt to stay on. Ebersohn opted to play a further season in the 7′s side even when Naka wanted him to stay with the Cheetahs and he had a starting berth secured. Unfortunately that proved “one season extra” too many and he’s never regained the form he found in Super/Currie Cup Rugby.
9 Dec 2010, 14:57 pm
I don’t agree Simon. Most first choice players in the 15-man game will ever CHOOSE to play 7s. It’s a stigma that you can’t get rid of. Not that it is a ‘weaker sport’, but people will always refer to players as ‘the 7s players’, even if they reach Springbok colors in the 15-man game.
For it to become serious, a competition must be created at domestic level… could walk side-by-side with the Currie-cup and even the S15!
What True was saying a few weeks ago is that there are many players who would rather play 7s rugby, if there was a serious career in it. (Heck, I would!)
If provinces created their own teams, seperately from the 15-man game, then you’ll see growth in our 7s. Players should commit themselves to a specific code, and cross-overs should be prevented as far as possible.
9 Dec 2010, 14:59 pm
@Yetirat : Actually Treu will support you in that. He said he wants players to commit to this form of rugby as a career.
9 Dec 2010, 15:01 pm
@Yetirat : Actually Ebehrson had a serious injury that kept him out for a season. So, it isn’t really 7′s fault.
9 Dec 2010, 15:03 pm
@kingrichard : LOL! I’d go with Prop 15s for 80mins! Especially if they love tackling like Os did!
9 Dec 2010, 15:24 pm
I believe that unions should never be able to stop a player from going to a national team, as long as SARU pays their salary during that period. Now that sevens is an olympic sport, unions should not be able to block players from playing Sevens – even if it’s a Super 14.
But you might say that this is not necessarily best for the player’s career. Then let the player decide! A player always has the right to refuse a callup to a national team if he sees it as being the best interests of his career. However, it is the union who should not be able to legally block the player from playing in the national team.
On top of that, the 15′s national coach can also stop a player from going to sevens, because the 15′s Springboks take precedence over the sevens Springboks. However, what point is there for a player to play Super 14 if he will get the same pay for sevens, and has no chance of making the Springbok 15 man team? In that case he should be allowed to play sevens while SARU pays his salary.
Unfortunately this will require central contracts – a concept that is beyond the grasp of SARU at the moment.
9 Dec 2010, 15:31 pm
@Bouts : Are you saying that most players don’t want to be involved in the olympics?
What if SARU payed them the same salary they would be getting in Super 15. Of course players could refuse to play for the national sevens team, but shouldn’t they atleast have the option? At the moment they don’t even have the right to make this decision for themselves because the unions can stop them.
9 Dec 2010, 15:40 pm
@Bouts :
There is already an inter-provincial sevens competition that nobody knows about. I don’t think there is much of a market for such a competition on its own.
Maybe its popularity would receive a boost if matches were played at halftime of Currie Cup matches. This could be a win-win because Currie Cup matches would also receive a boost.
9 Dec 2010, 15:50 pm
Sevens should serve as a development tool, with the Bok sevens team having a combination of full time players, and younger players who are there to hone and develop their skills. I agree fully that a couple of Boks should be selected for the home leg, and also for the World Cup, Olympics, Commonwealth games etc.
The number of players in international rugby, most notably from Australia and New Zealand, who have spent a year or two in Sevens is impressive. Its great for the outside backs as it teaches them how to beat a player and also how to play towards space, rather than the dumb “stampkar” rugby we see from so many backs in South Africa.
9 Dec 2010, 16:11 pm
@WOLFMAN21 : This doesn’t make sense because sevens is now an olympic sport. How many olympic teams have ‘younger players who are there to hone and develop their skills’?
If we are so interested in player development, then why don’t we let the players make their own decisions? If a player wants to play for the national sevens team, while making the same amount of money, then why should he be stopped?
I don’t think a lot of South Africans are clued in to the fact that sevens is an olympic sport now. SA rugby supporters also don’t seem to understand that is now the professional era when players should be be able to make their own choices about what is best for their careers. There should not be a legal barrier between players and any national team.
9 Dec 2010, 16:58 pm
@WOLFMAN21 : 38 israel dagg being a perfect example..
9 Dec 2010, 17:13 pm
Problem is that union will not release players to 7′s squad and this further devalues the 7′s jersey.
besides the money (more money in 15′s & steadier source of income as contracts are longer with specific benefits such as retainers etc),As players are not centrally contracted like they are in NZ & RFU(if im not mistaken) or at least compensated the situation wont change.Players cant be deployed from provinces in bolster the 7′s as well as develop their skill levels which may catapult them to the next level(ex:Dagg,Vito,Messam,Kaino,Muliaina,Rokocoko,Gear,Sivivatu etc of current AB squad are former 7′s players)…EX: Dagg was hardly out of high school when he receeeived his tutelage from Tietjens so age has nothing to do with it.
And provincial rejects such as Cama,DJ Forbes,Raikambula have become superstars in their own rights in the scene….Watch the next star on the horizon is Julian Savea,u20 phenom last yr & played some club rugby in ANZC.But he’ll play 7′s if he doesnt get S14 spot/roster.In SA he would rot in Vodacom Cup
Players such as Gehard van Velze,Siya Kolisi,Nick koster,Earl Rose,Jody Rose,Sias Eberson,Akona Ndungane(to get back his fitness after horrific injuries),Walter venter etc could do with the exposure…Gain back confidence etc Thats how its done elsewhere.(ex: when Rokocoko was off form & earlier Jonah Lomu were sent to play a bit of sevens)
Great to see Boom Prinsloo is squad.If he excells he’ll bhe a star..IN ANY FORMAT
9 Dec 2010, 19:33 pm
7′s really, really?
Hell who gives a toss about little mans rugby – Simon fire up a thread on the Lions awords held last night.
9 Dec 2010, 19:34 pm
The AB Sevens team is also mostly made up out of an assembly of non-Super14 and no-name players. Some show skills on the Sevens stage that get them into a S14 contract and even the ABs proper, but most don’t. Yet they’ve won a swathe of titles under Gordon Tietjens’s tutelage.
9 Dec 2010, 20:06 pm
7′s beats the hell out of skittle sticks as a spectators sport, any day any time, how anyone can get even vaguely or remotely excited over a pathetic poefta so called sport like skittle sticks beats the hell out of me no end.
At least 7′s has non stop action for the 15 or so minutes it transpires, its usually over too soon, I reckon they should extend it at least an extra 5 min each way, but its still a great exhilarating exhibition of athleticism and ball handling skills, speed strength and coordination, unlike that nonentity of an excuse of a sport where poeftas go hang out to get dried called skittle sticks, or as the poms would call it, cricket.
9 Dec 2010, 20:16 pm
This will never be true. Some of the young guns played for the baby boks and hell I think they have a bright future to come. I think its a good platform for some young rugby players. Flankers who have just come out of school can expand there skills in this format and it might even help them reach there target in there rugby careers because of the skills they are learning in this format.
9 Dec 2010, 20:45 pm
@pompies2 :
Agree with you whole heartedly. I posted below on the other 7s thread last night.
Wish more 15?s players had experience of 7?s. It improves your skills immeasurably particularly backline players.
Our guys still battle to beat a player one-on-one let alone a one-on-two situation in the 15?s set-up. In 7?s, it’s expected of you.
And defence, well there is hardly a cover defence to speak of. So tackling is a non-negotiatable.
And a great way to improve your pre-season fitness and sharpness.
9 Dec 2010, 22:10 pm
Sevens is as similar to 15-man union as what table tennis is to tennis.
9 Dec 2010, 22:22 pm
I don’t like table tennis.
9 Dec 2010, 22:27 pm
@PissAnt : Table tennis doesn’t like you.
9 Dec 2010, 22:30 pm
@WOLFMAN21 :
We are sorted then.
9 Dec 2010, 23:01 pm
@PissAnt : This from the SA Rugby page on Facebook, Not sure of you’ve seen it:
“Lions CEO Manie Reyneke says he’s confident of luring Butch James and Frans Steyn back from Europe. Made them offers and waiting for answers.”
10 Dec 2010, 01:08 am
@PissAnt :
Not even a great tv sport…
10 Dec 2010, 03:01 am
Hmmm
I recall alot of people on here took it seriously when SA won the top 7s team of the year in i think 2008 wasnt it.
Make your minds up
10 Dec 2010, 03:05 am
@Hurricane :
Alot is not everyone…simple really.
10 Dec 2010, 03:44 am
@Hurricane :
A bit of a generalisation bud?
A little like saying SA B just gave the Aussies one in the cricket
10 Dec 2010, 04:12 am
@whatever :
Except one is true and the other is not…
10 Dec 2010, 04:49 am
Your Moms tutelage.
10 Dec 2010, 04:52 am
@TheTackler : Tosh.
10 Dec 2010, 05:27 am
This is not as good as 15′s but the skill levels are far greater. This game teaches the player to use the space and I believe it to be a great tool for the 15 man game.
It is plainly obvious our ball skills are lower than the Ab’s and Aussies and this game could help if we took it seriously enough.
I do agree with 7′s prop rugby…
10 Dec 2010, 05:51 am
@KevinRack :
7(14) v 15(30) people on a pitch the same size. Hardly teaches them using space as there is so much more to start with.
Lack of skills of most our top players is due to a lack of proper training over many years, playing 7s’ will hardly fix it.
The analogy of 20/20 v test match cricket describes it best, no matter how flashy you look in the limited overs game, it will hardly improve your test cricket ability no matter how serious you take it.
10 Dec 2010, 08:20 am
interesting take
been wondering how the cape town stadium could be filled especially with the “enthusiasm” in this country
10 Dec 2010, 08:27 am
BORING
10 Dec 2010, 08:29 am
Obviously Simon didn’t get Die SON this morning otherwise we’d have more interesting story
10 Dec 2010, 08:32 am
most quota players play sevens … let there rather be sevens and keep government happy than letting them play 15 man rugby!
10 Dec 2010, 08:34 am
Morning all.
Hope we are all well. Hangover is starting to really set in after nice christmas lunch became dinner as well.
10 Dec 2010, 08:40 am
There are some really exciting youngsters playing in the age group teams who dont have the physicality to make it in Super 15 or currie cup. These are perfect examples of future 7′s players. The beauty about rugby is that it allows players of all shapes and sizes to participate and 7′s should be looked at as another avenue to allow a certain type of player to excel and represent his country. A Bakkies Botha will be made to look silly on a 7′s pitch but he dominates in the 15 game. Just an example of how great it is to have this form of the game available to our youngsters.
10 Dec 2010, 08:42 am
Beer oclock anyone?
Australia dropped three players and plucked left-arm spinner Michael Beer out of his debut first-class season for next week’s crucial third Ashes test against England in Perth.
Marcus North, Xavier Doherty and Doug Bollinger paid the price for Australia’s crushing innings and 71-run defeat to England in this week’s second Adelaide test, while opener Simon Katich was forced out with injury.
Beer, 26, who is playing his first Sheffield Shield season with Western Australia, gets a surprise call-up in Australia’s hour of need ahead of former first-choice Nathan Hauritz.
Steven Smith replaces the out-of-form North at number six in the batting order, while Mitchell Johnson and Ben Hilfenhaus, discarded for the second test, come back into test reckoning ahead of Bollinger.
Tweets from the Ashes Join the conversation Bollinger struggled after taking the early wicket of Andrew Strauss in the England first innings to finish the Adelaide test with the figures of 1-130.
Phillip Hughes will replace Katich, who will miss the rest of the Ashes series with a torn Achilles tendon.
“Phil is an exciting young batsman who has already proven his ability to succeed at international level and he deserves this opportunity to return to the Australian side,” chairman of selectors Andrew Hilditch said.
Hilditch said Smith will replace North after scores of 1, 26 and 22 in the first two tests.
“This is obviously disappointing for Marcus who has played some outstanding test innings for Australia but it was felt to be the right time to bring the exciting prospect Steve Smith into the test team,” he said.
“Steve has already had success at international level and will also add to the bowling depth with his legspin bowling and dynamic fielding.”
The biggest selection surprise was Beer, who comes in for another left-arm spinner Doherty, who was battered for 1-158 in Adelaide.
“Michael is a left-arm orthodox spinner who has been very impressive at domestic level this year,” Hilditch said.
“He took wickets against England in the tour match for WA earlier this summer and we expect he will bowl very well against the English on his home ground.”
Hilditch said Johnson and Hilfenhaus will be strongly considered for selection in the Perth test match where conditions will suit them.
“Ryan Harris and Peter Siddle were the pick of our quicks at Adelaide Oval and these four make up the pace attack for the Perth test match,” he said.
“The squad is a very exciting one with a blend of talented young players and experienced international cricketers.
“We are confident it will play an aggressive brand of cricket as we try to change the momentum of the test series in this critical Ashes test match.”
England as the Ashes holders can win the series if they beat Ponting’s team in Perth from next Thursday.
10 Dec 2010, 08:53 am
All groups seem equally tough.
Pools
Pool A: Australia, Scotland, Wales, France
Pool B: Samoa, Fiji, USA, Namibia
Pool C: New Zealand, England, Kenya, Russia
Pool D: South Africa, Argentina, Portugal, Zimbabwe.
Fixtures (all times SA, CAT, GMT+2)
11.37 Australia v Wales
11.59 Scotland v France
12.21 Samoa v USA
12.43 Fiji v Namibia
13.05 New Zealand v Kenya
13.27 England v Russia
13.49 South Africa v Portugal
14.11 Argentina v Zimbabwe
14.43 Australia v France
15.05 Scotland v Wales
15.27 Samoa v Namibia
15.49 Fiji v USA
16.11 New Zealand v Russia
16.33 England v Kenya
16.55 South Africa v Zimbabwe
17.17 Argentina v Portugal
17.49 Wales v France
18.11 USA v Namibia
18.33 Kenya v Russia
18.55 Portugal v Zimbabwe
19.32 Australia v Scotland
19.54 Samoa v Fiji
20.16 New Zealand v England
20.38 South Africa v Argentina
10 Dec 2010, 09:08 am
The problem for Australia is that they cannot prepare a pitch that suits them as England match or better them in every department. The only way they can win the test is to bat first on a flat pitch and hope that their top order come to the party. Put England under pressure on a wearing pitch. Dont think they have the bowlers to get England out twice so will have to rely on English mistakes and pressure.
10 Dec 2010, 09:11 am
@Eish : The things is, and England have done xtremely well up to this point, I have doubts about the ability of that team to take the initiative as favourites. I’m hoping that they don’t take it too lightly and blow it at some stage. The Aussies will be back that’s for sure.
10 Dec 2010, 09:12 am
Something else to consider is that Aus will be playing 2 spinners, one being a lefty. This means they will be digging up footmarks on both sides of the pitch. 4th innings, whoever it is, is going to battle.
10 Dec 2010, 09:14 am
@stormersboy : A bit like our Boks Stormer. Play best with their backs against the wall and not have the favorites tag. England have probably had a few good parties after the last test but I think Flower is a different kettle of fish. He doesn’t take any s..t from what I have heard.
10 Dec 2010, 09:18 am
@Eish : Yeah I really hope so. I think it’s really good for that game to have a strong English side. Also not unpleasant to watch the Aussies take one up the nought too……
10 Dec 2010, 09:21 am
I hear you.
10 Dec 2010, 09:36 am
http://www.facebook.com/l.php?u=http%3A%2F%2Flondon.thesouthafrican.com%2Fnews%2FOpen-letter-to-Max-Clifford&h=39673
This the link to an open letter to Max Clifford, Dewani’s attorney in England.
10 Dec 2010, 09:47 am
If this guy is guilty then he has got be the worst kind of criminal. Gets other people to do his dirty work and cries to the rest of the world.If he is innocent then he is going through hell and it is only going to get worse. Was his wife insured for a large amount of money? There are stories of financial problems but they still travel to SA and stay in the best hotel? Man, this has gripped the nation and hopefully the rest of the world. The truth must come out.
10 Dec 2010, 09:47 am
@Eish :
he is not his attorney, nor is he his solicitor.
he is a PR agent.
10 Dec 2010, 09:54 am
@gunther : yes he is a spin doctor and apparently very sharp, i wouldn’t be posting anything unsubstantiated about him.
10 Dec 2010, 09:55 am
I see Bheli Cele called the Shrien Dewani a m o n k e y…
How is he going to spin his way out of that?
Personally I blame apartheid for desensitising out venerable chief of police.
10 Dec 2010, 09:58 am
@Transformation :
he is.
Pr guru to the stars.
I think he has hitched his wagon to a lemon this time
and he has made some VERY ballsy statements which he may come to regret.
I am typing this wearing kid gloves.
10 Dec 2010, 10:00 am
Paul O’Sullivan feels differently though….
could this be THE Paul O’Sullivan that kicked Jackie Selebi in the knackers?
Dear Max,
I’m writing to give you some sound advice and to make a humble request.
First the advice:
The problem with making statements that are not true, is that you cannot take them back. You have repeatedly accused the South African media of being dishonest. The reality is that you have been economical with the truth in your representation of your client. You have said that your client being accused of murder is ‘convenient’ for South Africa, attempting to persuade yourself and your media that we ‘need’ a scapegoat for your client’s evil deeds.
Certain elements within your media have been far more dishonest than our media. Indeed, they regularly attempt to convince the public in the UK, that South Africa is a crime-ridden country full of racist unrest and mayhem, which all goes unchecked. The UK media have been so good at what they do, that your client thought this would be the ideal place to bring his wife and kill her. A bit of a self-fullfilling prophecy by The Sun, Daily Mirror, et al. No sooner had he stepped foot in the country, he was seeking out evil people to do his bidding. He chose innocent people and lured them with his dirty cash. He thought our messed-up criminal justice system would live up to the reputation given it by the likes of you and elements of the British press and be left clueless as to what to do, resulting in him and his cohorts never facing justice.
Nothing could be further from the truth. Your client now knows (painfully knows) that our criminal justice system is not as screwed up as he has been led to believe. I’ll bet he’s now hoping our prison system is not as bad as it is painted.
We have one of the most beautiful countries in the world and I would never give it up. There are millions more like me, despite what you and your media chums keep trying to convince themsleves of.
Now for the Humble Request
Max,
I beg you, stop bad-mouthing my country. You are welcome to come here and spend time with us and you will see that we have one of the best countries in the world. Even after the disgraceful things you have said, we will welcome you with open arms and show you the real South Africa. We are truly a rainbow nation, where the country is alive with possibility. I have never (ever) found more friendly people than I find here, of all race and creed. Yes, we have some crime problems, who doesn’t. But we are dealing with it and most visitors (more than 99.9%) have only a great experience, to remember us by. In fact, during the recent Soccer World Cup, we hosted hundreds of thousands of people from around the world. Around 180 of them were arrested and charged for various petty offences (including a journalist from the UK) but less than 0.0002 of the visitors were actually victims of crime, all but one being petty crime. This means that 99.98% of the World Cup visitors had a fantastic time.
I make this request Max, because your statements are damaging to my country and damaging to the people employed in the tourism industry. Indeed an apology to the people of South Africa, particularly the people of Cape Town, would be well appreciated, for the damage caused by you, on behalf of your client.
Finally, Max, a message to those that are thinking of coming here to carry out such dreadful deeds:
Don’t, there’s a damn good chance you will get caught and wind up in prison.
Needless to say, should you ignore the advice by not keeping quiet, you can expect that I will be taking action against you personally, to ensure like-minded individuals get a strong message, not to bad-mouth and slander this beautiful country of ours.
I do hope you enjoy what’s left of today Max, and please tell your client we look forward to seeing him here again soon. Very soon!
Best wishes,
Paul O’Sullivan
10 Dec 2010, 10:02 am
Dont know him from Adam but this letter was sent to him. Thought it made a whole lot of sense. As far as the suspect is concerned, who knows. As I said earlier, if he is innocent then he must be going through all types of hell.
10 Dec 2010, 10:17 am
@gunther : i just don’t get it.. uf my wife got butchered in phuket or sao paulo, coming back to mzantsi and hiring a spindoctor would be the last thing on my mind.
10 Dec 2010, 10:22 am
If they have so much evidence against the guy maybe there will be a sudden silence from all his supporters. Spin doctor or not, there comes a time when you count your losses and keep quiet? One thing is for sure, somebody is going to eat their words and at the moment it is a very close call.
10 Dec 2010, 10:34 am
@Transformation :
exactly.
as soon as I saw that I thought you cheeky little basteraud.
10 Dec 2010, 10:49 am
I’d be amazed if they would prepare an extradition document and go to all that trouble simply on the basis of a “his word against mine” argument. There must be other supporting evidence (I hope). I heard somewhere that there is CCTV footage of the two of them meeting after the hit? Not sure what that proves but according to the court papers filed the explaination of events and evidence cited was not exhaustive, but purely for plea bargain purposes only and that more will be brought to light later.
Wonder what that means….
Hope our guys don’t stuff this one up like they did with Agliotti.
10 Dec 2010, 10:52 am
did they ever arrest mark thatcher? and where is jurgen harksen?
10 Dec 2010, 10:53 am
@stormersboy :
cell phone records will nail the little phucker.
I’m sure there are some nasty little smses floating around the ether.
10 Dec 2010, 10:55 am
@Transformation :
as far as I know Jurgen has been doing time in Germany.
The Milk Snatcher’s son got away with a fine that his mummy paid.
what have they to do with this case?
10 Dec 2010, 11:02 am
@gunther : I believe there are some SMS’s that will clear up any doubt. As I say, I just hope they don’t stuff it up.
@Transformation : I think Harksen is out by now. Thatcher was connected from the start. He has the knowledge, if not backing of the Poms. So it was taken care of. Nasty piece of work that Mark.
A mate of mine “dated” Harksen’s ex wife for a while. She a bit of a nutcase, but not bad for a cougar.
10 Dec 2010, 11:08 am
@stormersboy :
thatcher is an unmititgated krunt.
harksen’s wife.
that’s pushing it, even by cougar standards.
10 Dec 2010, 11:10 am
@gunther : stormerseun is hoping our boys don’t mess up this case, i was just wandering about international criminals we haven’t prosecuted successfully in our country…
10 Dec 2010, 11:16 am
@gunther : @81, Thanks Paul, I said it during the week, Dewani must blame his UK Press for leading him to believe SA is a wild west with lawlessness. It took less than a moth to arrest and sentence the dude that committed the murder, Dewani must be kakking his pants for believing the UK media.
I remember a “Machete war” article just before the WC
10 Dec 2010, 11:17 am
@Transformation : Glenn Agliotti
Vito Roberto Palazzolo
Count Ricardo Augusta
There must be more….
10 Dec 2010, 11:18 am
John Stratton? (never extradited)
Brett when he was alive
10 Dec 2010, 11:20 am
Often in this country with it’s overburdened legal system those that have deep pockets are able to hire the best, who are often way too good for the prosecuting team…
10 Dec 2010, 11:21 am
@Transformation :
apart from glen agliotti?
and vito palazzolo?
we never prosecuted Harksen here and it took over a decade to extradite him to germany.
thatcher paid an admission of guilt which was used to fund a youth trip to venezuela to ascertain whether five-a-side football can cure aids.
10 Dec 2010, 11:25 am
@gunther : 98 exactly that. a decade!
10 Dec 2010, 11:28 am
@Transformation :
so what’s your point the guy stuck it to our legal system for a decade.
how does that make sa law and order look good.
10 Dec 2010, 11:30 am
@stormersboy :
aren’t palazzolo and augusta the same guy?
10 Dec 2010, 11:37 am
@gunther : Nope. Met them. Count Augusta is basically Italian Aristocricy. Vito is alledgedly the “banker” (as he likes to refer to himself) to many of the “connected” guys.
I believe that Riccardo (Count) bought his Franschoek estate from Roberto (Vito) who is a close friend and “advisor”
It all gets a bit confusing after a while though.
10 Dec 2010, 11:50 am
@gunther : did i at any point make you believe that i was saying sa law is good?
10 Dec 2010, 11:51 am
@stormersboy :
I met Palazzolo years ago through a friend who srtangely enough is no longer around
you are quite a shady phucker.
boerewors mafia
10 Dec 2010, 11:52 am
I may get flak for this but part of me feels sorry for the guy doing 18 years (Tongo). He committed a crime but a couple of weeks ago he was just a driver. The lure of quick money has taken him away from family etc.Believe in ‘Do the crime, do the time’ but just seems that he got suckered.
10 Dec 2010, 11:56 am
@Transformation :
jeez transie.
if you have a point to make go ahead and make it
10 Dec 2010, 11:59 am
@gunther : your feigned exasperation is amusing
10 Dec 2010, 12:04 pm
@Transformation :
just tell us what you are trying to say
you are worse than maevis when it comes to beating around the thorn bush.
10 Dec 2010, 12:04 pm
@gunther : 103 You have no idea….Be afraid…Be very afraid….
10 Dec 2010, 12:14 pm
@gunther : move on, cos i have
10 Dec 2010, 12:15 pm
Ok I see I just killed the thread here. Sorry okes. Come back please. I didn’t mean to frighten you away…..(except you Skop)
……guys?……
10 Dec 2010, 12:17 pm
@Transformation : I must say, I’ve noticed your posts getting a little more, well, (how shall say this without offending you because I always enjoy our banter..)”testy” of late?
End of a long year?
10 Dec 2010, 12:23 pm
@stormersboy : hehehe me, “testy”? figment of your imagination
i like to crank it up a notch sometimes, otherwise no crotchetiness from my side.
10 Dec 2010, 12:29 pm
@Transformation : OK. Carry on as usual then….
10 Dec 2010, 12:34 pm
@gunther :
at least when Maevis starts going like you I know she is going somewhere…
like leading up to an interest free capital repayment optional indefinite term loan.
you on the other hand are just being an agent.
10 Dec 2010, 12:35 pm
I do hope Lions get Butch James and Frans Steyn, some super 15 franchise should get BJ Botha back as ap as well…
Butch my best 10 in SA….will get that sterile bacline firing.
Going to be a uge super 15, almost every SA game doubling up as mini trials.
Will be very interesting with players like A Bekker, Juandre Kruger, Brussow back. The competetion for places going to be huge….Flip VD Merwe, D Rossouw…
Going to be some very sad palyers when wc squad announced.
So bloody busy but managed to get in my post.
cheers
outta here
10 Dec 2010, 12:37 pm
@grant10 : They already know who the squad is. The only changes will be injury enforced.
But that’s just my opinion mind you…..
10 Dec 2010, 12:39 pm
@grant10 : 115 – Howzit Grant, Good to see you back here.
Agree, said something similar on SW this morning. Rather have them both back here in South Africa playing their rugby no matter which union gets them, than having them play their rugby overseas.
10 Dec 2010, 12:40 pm
@stormersboy :
don’t burst his bubble.
he is happy. that’s all we want for him.
10 Dec 2010, 12:41 pm
@stormersboy : you probably right.
Not the best way to go about it in my opinion.
Keep the hunger i say….the desire….
But yeah, lets wait and see.
Cheers
10 Dec 2010, 12:41 pm
@stormersboy : 116 – Howzit Stormer, How you doing buddy? You not going away for Christmas Holidays?
10 Dec 2010, 12:43 pm
@Puma : @grant10 : IMO Frans needs to get back to SA in order to get back up to speed and in shape. He’s not living up to his potential in France, doing us and him no good.
Butch, well, as I’ve always said, I’m a big fan. The key is to keep him injury free.
I personally think he should think of SA first instead of all this nasty “Money business” and come to WP. That way we’ll be able to give him a year with JDV, JF and Brian. Perfect leading up to the WC.
10 Dec 2010, 12:45 pm
@Puma : hi Puma.
ja….rather get the players back from overseas than rape and pillage between the sa franchises.
That bok c squad very difficult to choose….i feel a lot of rugby to be played still…..but hell man we can put an awesome team together, especially forwards.
Just need pdv to get some help with the bok backs….we seem clueless on attack….if we get that right i fully believe we can win the damn thing again…..that bok pack will take any pack apart if they fired up and chosen with merit as opposed to sentiment.That forward pack performance against poms was ruthless…i was very impressed.
Gotta run
Cheers Puma and all.
10 Dec 2010, 12:45 pm
@grant10 : where will elton & burton play if butch is back?
10 Dec 2010, 12:46 pm
@Puma : 120 I’m good thanks Puma. I’ll take the family away to the “Stormersboy family compound” (as Gunther put it a while ago)by the sea for a week or two after the Christmas duties are over..Lots to do before then but I love this time of year. Great vibe to it.
You going anywhere?
10 Dec 2010, 12:47 pm
@stormersboy : if butch signs for stormers i would buy a season ticket! Great player!
Cheers mate….this Findex absa got me running….very exciting, but hard work.
10 Dec 2010, 12:48 pm
@Transformation : lots of rugby to be played…need large squads…
10 Dec 2010, 12:48 pm
@stormersboy : 121 – Stormer,
Yeah for sure we need Fransie back right here in SA. I would really love to see him back at the Sharks, but really doubt that will ever happen. So do hope Lions get it right and get him back home. Also good to have Butchie back, but he will be short term for Lions, probably coming from the bench. Jantjies is there top fh, but long season next year and Butch will be great for them.
Will Bath and Metro release both early from their contracts? That could be a problem, but money talks. Lions have the cash to buy both our of those contracts and I personally hope to see them both back here in SA where they should be. Especially Fransie as he is still only 23. Should never have left so young.
10 Dec 2010, 12:48 pm
@stormersboy :
the french croissant industry will go on strike if frankie steyn leaves.
10 Dec 2010, 12:49 pm
@grant10 : How do you fit into the whole scheme of things? Drop me a line on my mail when you get a mo, ok? (any address will do lol)
Cheers G
10 Dec 2010, 12:50 pm
@grant10 : merit?, meaning John Smit nowhere near the staring 15?
10 Dec 2010, 12:51 pm
@XhosaKid :
Hawu
10 Dec 2010, 12:52 pm
@grant10 : 122 – Grant, With you on that. We must get our players back here. Hope Lions get it right and get both back.
Agree we need some help coaching wise for our Boks backs. Hope they get someone.
10 Dec 2010, 12:52 pm
i’d also love to see francois back just to see how nonsense he is every weekend
10 Dec 2010, 12:53 pm
@grant10 : Post 126.
Good to see you back.
These Okes been missing you. All and sundry asking where the fook is the ******* grant.
8)
10 Dec 2010, 12:53 pm
@XhosaKid : merit meaning daddy and his mates cant force your selection
10 Dec 2010, 12:54 pm
ja, welcome back grant
10 Dec 2010, 12:55 pm
@Transformation : hehe, fransie is nonsense?
what you have in your pants is nonsense
10 Dec 2010, 12:57 pm
@XhosaKid : this rangerman guy thinks you’re an inherent liar! nc nc nc ifuna nje amadlwabevu nje ayi-two!
10 Dec 2010, 12:57 pm
so 1685 people reckon sevens should stay in george.
289 reckon it should be moved to the cape to a stadium that costs 49 mil a year to upkeep?
are the capetonians sleeping off a hangover or what?
10 Dec 2010, 12:58 pm
@rangerman : merit is plod being picked before bissie for his “aura”
10 Dec 2010, 12:59 pm
@Transformation :
so my explanation didnt hold any water or is it just that you feel like being dishonest today transie?
10 Dec 2010, 12:59 pm
@stormersboy : 124 – Enjoy it Stormer, Good to get away for a bit.
Nah, not going anywhere this time of year.
Vibe great here too. Love it this time of year, though very crowded now in Umhlanga with all the holiday makers, no doubt will get even more crowded next week.
10 Dec 2010, 13:00 pm
@Transformation : bissie is outstanding after his break.
juan smith and bakkies too.
imagine how the rest will do after just such a break?
10 Dec 2010, 13:01 pm
@Transformation : Not to worry Transie, Victor Matfield has signaled his ambition of winning the WC as a Captain, the biggest controversy in 2011 will be Matfield’s ambition to lead the boks in their defense of the World Cup
10 Dec 2010, 13:02 pm
@rangerman : 141 according to you i’m genetically prone to it, so why disappoint you?
10 Dec 2010, 13:03 pm
@Puma : howdy puma.
ja, umhlanga gets crazy at this time of year.
i am off to CT for Christmas to visit the in-laws and a week in sodwana in jan.
i must say, getting from the gateway/ridge area down to the village is a nightmare at this time of year. reminds me why i live in durbs though because parts of jozi are like this all year.
10 Dec 2010, 13:04 pm
@Transformation : you are doing this to yourself transie.
a tragedy.
the legacy of apartheid i presume?
10 Dec 2010, 13:04 pm
@XhosaKid : 144 quite right! Big Vic must solidify his legacy
10 Dec 2010, 13:06 pm
@XhosaKid : where did Vic say that?
interesting.
cant rule it out i suppose but his lack of ability to focus the troops and change game plans in any of the end of year tour games rules him out imo.
his visible impatience with the refs was just as bad.
10 Dec 2010, 13:07 pm
has there been any news on the censure handed out to bjorn basson and chili?
hope they dont get nailed as apparently the substance will be downgraded in terms of censure in jan.
10 Dec 2010, 13:08 pm
@rangerman : you were miffed and shot from the hip, do like poppa and seek redemption…
10 Dec 2010, 13:10 pm
@rangerman :
maybe they are delaying things until them.
Michael Hulley should get in touch with them
10 Dec 2010, 13:11 pm
@Transformation : no i was drawing attention to the ridiculous practice of painting an entire group as having an homogenous character trait.
but if you want to wear the cap then do so transie, my xhosa buddy
p.s. i apologised for causing offence to those who didnt understand my intention yesterday already transie, clearly you are being disengenous if not downright dishonest
10 Dec 2010, 13:12 pm
@rangerman : 149 it’s not like plod managed those oirish refs with aplomb during tri-nations either..
10 Dec 2010, 13:12 pm
@gunther : now that is a dishonest human being.
at last check he wasnt a xhosa but the hulleys are an old transkei family…..
10 Dec 2010, 13:14 pm
@Transformation : Post151.
“do like poppa and seek redemption”.
Has Popps booked into Rehab or some such thing.
10 Dec 2010, 13:14 pm
@rangerman : I have it on good authority that they are in deeper shite than people here have been suggesting……
I could tell you how I know but then I’d have to kill you….
10 Dec 2010, 13:15 pm
@Transformation :
hooolihah
when did poops seek redemption?
he is a victim, yet because of him Oprah has to travel to Sydney in a bulletproof limo in case he goes all Sharpeville on her.
redemption indeed
10 Dec 2010, 13:15 pm
@Transformation : true, he was clearly off the pace and couldnt get to them quick enough and with enough breath left to have a quiet chat
at least he didnt stand over them glowering and give them bleddy sheek like juan smith.
10 Dec 2010, 13:16 pm
@rangerman : 153 flip flops, deflections and lame attempts to move the needle away from zero will work with some but not with me
i know your type
10 Dec 2010, 13:18 pm
@cane : i am not sure cane.
but i prefer not to “do like” anyone else.
i am unique, just like everyone else.
@stormersboy : ja, i hear you are a shady chappie hanging out with the capo (not that freakshow from here, the real deal).
10 Dec 2010, 13:18 pm
@cane : yes, to rid himself of the abuse visited upon him by kobus kitty & whatever..
10 Dec 2010, 13:19 pm
Vic handles refs with the same degree of aplomb as old Caner exhibits when he is handed the wine list in a restaurant.
He starts quivering with rage and a thinly concealed sense of social injustice.
10 Dec 2010, 13:20 pm
@gunther : i am the veeectim of a political conspiracy.
plus i have hypertension that causes blindness and is fatal…eventually.
i am typing on a braille keyboard.
@Transformation : my type?
i could give a toss about what you know
10 Dec 2010, 13:22 pm
@rangerman :
lol everything is fatal.
eventually
10 Dec 2010, 13:23 pm
@rangerman : 146 – Howzit Ranger,
Ja, this place very crowded now. Thank goodness I don’t have to do any of the shopping…hehehe. Gateway is mare this time of year.
Cape Town sounds cool buddy. Enjoy.
Anyhow love living here too. Pleased I am only living here now and not going back and forward to Joburg. Joburg like you say is like this from 6am until 7pm every day of the week for 365 days a year..hahahaha. Pleased that is behind me now.
10 Dec 2010, 13:24 pm
@rangerman : 164 atone ranger, set yourself free…
10 Dec 2010, 13:26 pm
@rangerman : 161.. LOL that’s me. Slim Shady!
No, I do know a great deal of people in the “industry”. Some ex players, some in the “system”, some at the mothership so to speak, and I hear stuff from time to time. A great deal of it I would never post on here as it’s sensitive and in some cases opinion of the people involved who would probably post it here themselves if they wanted it all over the web…
10 Dec 2010, 13:29 pm
PS it’s been my experience in life that’s it’s not actually “what” you know, or even “who” you know that counts, but rather “what you know” about “who you know”….
10 Dec 2010, 13:29 pm
@gunther :
@Transformation : dont start a poopa party here transie
10 Dec 2010, 13:30 pm
@Puma : ja, durbs is great.
cant wait to go to the test as well as i am back on the 26th.
life is great.
10 Dec 2010, 13:34 pm
ok, i am out.
transie, JUST ONE CHANCE!!!
10 Dec 2010, 13:37 pm
@rangerman : 171 – Ja Durbs is great Ranger. You going to the test at Kings Mead? Should be great. Hope no rain and we see the full 5 days.
10 Dec 2010, 13:37 pm
@rangerman :post161.
“i am unique………..”
True Dangerman, true.
The question is:
Is one Dangerman, one too many?
I think not!
8)
10 Dec 2010, 13:45 pm
@Transformation : Post162.
Thanks Transie.
Such are the perils of Keo.co
I hope Popps returns.
10 Dec 2010, 13:48 pm
I love Jozi, off to Alex now, need to have nice skop and pap, its going to be a hectic drinking evening.
Transie: sitya intloko yegusha ne papa apho eRhawutini!!!
10 Dec 2010, 13:51 pm
@XhosaKid : 176 i don’t eat smileys i didn’t being prepared with my own two eyes
pha emakhaya ndizakuziminca ngaye ngekrismesi…
10 Dec 2010, 13:54 pm
@Transformation :
quite right.
a dodgy smiley can be career limiting.
10 Dec 2010, 13:56 pm
Poppa can stick to being romantic with his harem of white-curly beauties…
The old head shepherd is probably dribbling with slack jaw to his favourite marino
and repeating over and over: “those naughty, naughty hobbitses” or “Karma, karma, karma, karma Chameleon”…
His favourite merino probably replies with a sympathetic “ba a a ahhh”…
10 Dec 2010, 14:08 pm
@gunther : i forget, maevis has transformed you into a smiley connosieur
10 Dec 2010, 14:12 pm
@Transformation :
I won’t touch it.
Maevis blames it on the smiley when she takes a puza monday.
meanwhile it’s actually the 6 quarts of milk stout she washes it down with.
no wonder come monday she’s “not right”….
10 Dec 2010, 14:23 pm
@gunther : liar you love smileys…
10 Dec 2010, 14:29 pm
@Transformation :
true
but I can’t handle milk stout.
mondays at casa gunther are known as black monday.
there is an odds on chance of a domestic misshap or equipment abuse.
10 Dec 2010, 14:33 pm
Div is ‘not a token appointment’
2010-12-10 12:45:01
Peter de Villiers is not a ‘token’ appointment and the current management team has the ability to take South Africa all the way at the World Cup in 2011.
This is the view of the new CEO of the South African Rugby Union, Jurie Roux, who was answering readers’ questions on BOKzine on the SARU website.
Roux, who was bombarded with questions about the Springboks’ troubled 2010 campaign and the management team’s lack of performance, contradicted earlier statements by SARU President Oregan Hoskins about the true nature of De Villiers’ appointment.
Hoskins had publicly stated that De Villiers was appointed for “reasons other than rugby”.
However, Roux intimated this week that De Villiers’ appointment was based on merit only.
Paul Eyles, one of the many readers who posted questions, did not pull any punches – saying that Bok backline coach **** Muir has to go, having made a mess of the Lions and is now doing the same thing with the Boks.
Eyles also said that De Villiers is a token appointment and in order to make the best of a bad situation they should appoint at least two decent assistants.
However, the SARU CEO disagreed strongly with the reader on this point.
“The performance of the Springbok coaching team is a matter for the head coach to decide on and, to get one thing straight, Peter de Villiers is not a token appointment,” Roux said.
Asked by Danie Smith if he felt that the current coaching staff are the best there is in South Africa, Roux was again to the point.
“It’s a nice question to debate around a braai, but it’s also entirely hypothetical as there is no other management team,” Roux retorted.
“What I can say is that I firmly believe that this management team has the ability and will be given any other resources they might require to give our players an outstanding chance of retaining the Rugby World Cup.
“A winning Springbok team is very much this organisation’s No.1 priority.”
In response to another question about the Bok coaching staff and the 2011 World Cup in New Zealand, Roux had this to say:”We too are looking forward to 2011 with great anticipation.
“We’ll be overhauling the way we operate at SARU, unveiling a new strategy and a new Super Rugby competition but, most importantly of all, we’ll be pouring our major efforts into making sure the Springboks have the best possible chance to retain the World Cup.”
He also stood firm in the face of some tough questions about the Boks’ poor 2010 form – which saw them lose five out of six Tri-Nations Tests and two of their five year-end matches, including a shocking performance in their loss to lowly Scotland.
He said fatigue was never a factor.
“Our players and management didn’t once mention tiredness on the recent tour – in fact, they dismissed the suggestion when it was put to them,”Roux said.
“Perhaps commentators mentioned it, but certainly never our players.
“On the detail of the Scotland match I cannot help you, but I can say that we thoroughly merited all three of the Test victories achieved – none of Ireland, Wales or England were good enough to beat us and producing those results, away from home, in familiar conditions with more than a dozen injured players at home and against northern hemisphere teams at their strongest is no to be so easily dismissed.
“And, finally, Peter said before the tour that he was considering the appointment of a consultant and that door has not been closed.”
10 Dec 2010, 14:38 pm
@Transformation : jurie roux just became afriforum’s new pet-hate!
10 Dec 2010, 14:45 pm
@Transformation : Well he wasn’t likely to say any different now was he?
10 Dec 2010, 14:47 pm
@Transformation :
considering he was sitting in is office in stellies when divot was appointed?
yes well no fine
10 Dec 2010, 14:48 pm
@stormersboy :
Maybe Shrien Dewani can hire him as his PR agent South Africa side.
10 Dec 2010, 14:50 pm
@WESTERN PROVINCE – SOUTH AFRICA’S BENCHMARK SINCE 1883 :
” Your name! Your name! it’s soo beautiful
Your hair! your hair ……..
But when you smile
The whole world stops and stares for a while
‘Cos you’re amzing just the way you are ”
Keep it up Benchie
10 Dec 2010, 14:56 pm
A grizzly scene on my electron beam
told a story about human rights,
so all of kings horses
and all of kings men had a riot
for two days and nights
well, the city exploded
but the gates wouldn’t open
so the company asked him to quit
now everybody’s equal
just don’t measure it..
..well Hanson did it to Hester
and Mark David did it to John
and maybe Jack did it to Marilyn
but he did it to South Vietnam
for beauty and glory
for money, love and country
everybody’s doing it,
don’t do that to me!
11 Dec 2010, 04:32 am
“I don’t buy the argument that our sevens players want to be sevens specialists because they prefer the format to 15-man rugby.”
You obviously did not listen to the current 7′s captain last week who said that 7′s rugby is a preferred code for some of the players if they can get a contract.
It’s like some tennis players who know that they won’t make it in the singles, so they rather play doubles knowing that they will still make a decent living at they end of the day.
11 Dec 2010, 04:43 am
@nama1 :
at they= at the end of the day (soos Baas Naas sal se.)
13 Dec 2010, 02:32 am
@Slartibartfast :
And you point??
Alot of people in NZ like rugby,some dont. I dont know what your point was about actually
13 Dec 2010, 03:45 am
@Transformation :
So, another “yes sir, no sir, 3 bags full sir” wally appointed to join the circus that is the SARU. With answers like that he will fit right in with the rest of the “ostrich head in the sand” brigade……exciting times……
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