Luke still has Bok ambition
17 May 2011
Luke Watson says he would be open to representing the Springboks again and believes they are in a stronger position than any other team to win the World Cup.
Watson was speaking in Cape Town en route to Port Elizabeth where he will commence duty with the EP Kings after two years at Bath in the Premiership.
He left South Africa in late 2009 having established a reputation for being outspoken on a range of issues, most notably representing the Springboks. At a dinner at University of Cape Town Rugby Club, he was alleged to have said, among other things, that he felt like vomiting on the Bok jersey when he debut in 2007 because of what it represented.
Although it was never confirmed that he said this, many of the senior Springboks, who had been vehemently opposed to his late inclusion in the 2007 World Cup training squad, used the claims to further justify their dislike and disregard for him.
Watson, whose father Cheeky was a prominent activist during the struggle years, intimated that his thinking and attitude at the time had been influenced by others. He, however, suggested that he returns a different person.
‘I grew up in a fundamentally different environment to most – every word was watched, every decision I made monitored,’ Watson told keo.co.za. ‘I remember being interviewed by CNN at the age of 10 and asked whether I support the Springboks. I said “yes”, but was quickly rapped over the knuckles by the powers that be because it wasn’t the correct thing to do politically.
‘I never really had an opportunity to establish my own identity and make my own decisions. These 18 months in Bath have been incredibly beneficial in that regard. It’s given me the opportunity to assess the things that I value.
‘It’s easy for me to sit here and tell you how mature I have become. But I can only hope that over the next few years you will notice that there are certain values and principles have have been altered. I’m still going to be the Luke Watson that speaks from my heart, not too worried about the consequences that come with the truth. I’m not going to shy away from any issues because of opposition I’ve received in the past.
‘Yes there are things that I still don’t agree with at a national and regional level. But if I do get the opportunity to represent my country again I will do so very proudly.’
Watson is unlikely to force his way into the Springbok World Cup squad, and never gave the impression that he expected to. But that didn’t stop him from sharing his views on where they stand at present.
‘As far as talent squad and depth goes, I don’t think any team can match the Springboks,’ he said. ‘If the All Blacks lose Dan Carter or Richie McCaw there are big, big holes to fill. We’re not in the same situation. Most of our players are very easily replaceable. We’re in a very strong position if the right team is selected and managed correctly.’
Watson added: ‘I’d like to see a couple of the youngsters who haven’t got an opportunity to play Test rugby get that chance before the World Cup. For example, for me it’s ridiculous that Duane Vermeulen hasn’t played any Tests. He has been the most consistent loose forward in the last two or three seasons of Super Rugby. Yes we have great loose forwards, but surely you have to find an opportunity somewhere for him.
‘Also, I’d like to see Pat Lambie play two or three Tests at 10. Peter Grant deserves an opportunity as well. We’ve seen what Morné Steyn can do, but we should go to the World Cup knowing that we have options in terms of playing different styles against different teams.’
The 27-year-old, who will compete with Eastern Province in the Currie Cup First Division and Vodacom Cup (in 2012) until the Kings’ entry into Super Rugby in 2013, said he wasn’t available to any other franchise in 2012.
Watson acknowledged the prevailing perception that he was taking a massive step backwards in his career, but explained the decision, saying: ‘I was in heaven in Bath, earning pounds and captaining the side. Life was easy. I could have stayed in Bath and taken comfortable, easy route. But I knew there was something greater that I could achieve.
‘I understand that people would look at the move from one of the top sides in Europe to playing Currie Cup First Division as a step down and a risk. But I look at the long-term potential of this decision, especially its ability to uplift a community and region. Sure there are a lot of things that are not ideal. But there are a lot more that are.
‘I really believe that the players and the resources are there for the Kings to be successful. It’s incredibly difficult to keep the talented players in the Eastern Cape without a Super Rugby franchise. The Kings solve that problem, although I appreciate that it will take time [to hold on to the region's best players].’
360 Comments
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17 May 2011, 15:00 pm
@JockBok(JockBok)-50: Chicks dig tourtured emos…
Pixies for sure.
17 May 2011, 15:00 pm
@Cheetah 4 Eva(Cheetah 4 Eva)-47: listen closely my fleet footed spotted friend….my views on Luke are plain and simple…..he must prove his worth on the field and if ever chosen for boks must be chosen on merit.
Plain….simple….
Do I rate him as a player? Very much so….But I rate Brussow, Vermeulen,Johnson Alberts, J Smith , as well…
As for plod….well if he is there on merit then I am a vryheidsfront Vryheid Vegter!!!!
17 May 2011, 15:01 pm
I never quite get the point of articles like these. Space filler if there was one.
OF COURSE he still has Bok ambitions… that’s like saying “I hope to still have *** in my life”.
Well, duh?
17 May 2011, 15:04 pm
would have expected a lot more on the sharks…bulls from the keo team….going to be massive
17 May 2011, 15:05 pm
@Stormersboy(stormersboy)-51:
Too true. But he’s from Constantia. Probably more of a Beach Boys kinda guy
17 May 2011, 15:05 pm
If I had a choice between Spies or Watson I would definitely not pick the steroid show pony, but alas we are stuck with Spies, sad really.
17 May 2011, 15:08 pm
From Sport 24
Luke Watson signs with Keo
2011-05-17 14:17Email | Print
Luke Watson (File)
Luke Watson arrived back in South Africa last week after a successful playing stint in Bath, and after a quiet few days spent catching up with family, friends and former players, he was presented to the media in Cape Town by Highbury Safika Media (HSM – publishers of SA Rugby magazine and http://www.keo.co.za amongst others).
HSM, at the same function, confirmed their entry into the sports management market with their signing of the fiery Springbok, Bath and EP Kings loose forward.
Questioned on any potential conflict of interest given that Watson just happens to be the poster and cover model for this month’s issue of SA Rugby magazine, HSM CEO Kevin Ferguson was confident in the belief that his editorial teams would pick covers and features based on servicing readers rather than any other potentially nefarious reasons.
Backing up their CEO were Commercial Director, and the man who will run the player management side of the business, Shane Keohane, brother to HSM Chief Operating Officer, Mark Keohane, who were both at pains to stress that the two sides of the business would be kept very separate.
“As a player I wanted to be aligned with a vibrant company who share my enthusiasm for Eastern Province and South African rugby, and who also believe there is a different way to manage the careers of players,” said Watson.
Watson arrives in Port Elizabeth at the weekend and will represent the Kings in the guise of the South African Kings in June’s IRB sanctioned Emerging Nations tournament to be hosted by Romania. The Kings replace the Emerging Springboks as South Africa’s tournament representative.
17 May 2011, 15:09 pm
@RedLions’ team won … down under(RL)-56:
thank heavens we don’t have to make that choice. Vermeulen, Alberts and a coupe of others…
17 May 2011, 15:10 pm
@>^..^< katman(katman)-37: ha ha..
17 May 2011, 15:10 pm
I sat through his last press conference in 2009 at WP Rugby.
Watson never had a problem with the fans or people (in the stands or on the streets), but he took a very broad swipe at the media for abusing the power they have.
He cautioned, if not begged the media in Cape Town (known as the worst of the lot) to stand by their team because these youngsters (in 2009 remember) were going somewhere and they need to media to back them and not vilify them.
It was interesting at the time that his parting words, where he could have let rip, he chose stand up for his team.
Perceptions is a ***** though.
Oh well – this episode and debate is far from over.
In rugby terms, Luke is an asset to SA rugby, welcome back sir.
17 May 2011, 15:12 pm
@JockBok(JockBok)-50: Definitely the Pixies. But perhaps not Where is My Mind? – too expected. I’d go for straight up rock like “Gouge Away” off Doolittle. Or perhaps something a little otherworldly like The Happening” from Bossanova. But any Pixies track will cement their cool for years to come. The Clash won’t do that for them.
17 May 2011, 15:12 pm
@JockBok(JockBok)-24: you forgot about the Watson 10 step guide to kotching on the Bok emblem…
17 May 2011, 15:16 pm
@foreverrugga(foreverrugga)-62: yawn
17 May 2011, 15:22 pm
@grant10(grant10)-63: It’s kinda irritating ne? Keep this in mind when you keep on ranting about fatty.
17 May 2011, 15:27 pm
@Hop Hop Spinnekop(Hop Hop Spinnekop)-64: plod not around to rant about……fatty either injured or on the bench ….where he belongs
17 May 2011, 15:29 pm
@grant10(grant10)-65: Cut it out, Grantie. It’s not becoming.
17 May 2011, 15:38 pm
@grant10(grant10)-63: ag grant fkn plod off man !
17 May 2011, 15:40 pm
hail the return of Luke Watson, the champion of the poor, definitely he won’t vote for DA.
17 May 2011, 15:41 pm
@grant10(grant10)-65:
what a selfish ballbag you have become.
your way or the highway.
we have to put up with daily rants from you for years……
and you have the temerity to try to shut down other bloggers when you disagree.
saddest part is you don’t even realise how selfish you are.
17 May 2011, 15:42 pm
@trupisero(trupisero)-58:
Alberts
Danie
Duane
Ashley
Pierre
Ryan
Davon
…
…
17 May 2011, 15:44 pm
@charo(charo)-69: well said man!!
17 May 2011, 15:45 pm
http://www.sport24.co.za/Rugby/Luke-Watson-signs-with-Keo-20110517
I can’t make out what the tatoo on Luke Watson’s arm reads:
“Carnal Freedom”??
17 May 2011, 15:46 pm
deals to be done cheers peoples
17 May 2011, 15:46 pm
This man seems like such an egotist. Sorry, maybe I’m just an ***.
17 May 2011, 15:47 pm
@charo(charo)-69: That logic is over the head of grant ‘I sniff Luke’s jock strap’ 10, i think the majority of readers would have eased their views on Puke a while ago if it wasnt for ol’ granties ranting about JS and the cancer
17 May 2011, 15:51 pm
@charo(charo)-69: Hear, hear! *applause*
17 May 2011, 15:54 pm
@charo(charo)-69: you are correct.
sorry.
I will hope that LW does his talking on the field and allow these okes to carry on as they will….
Ja….you are right….my ‘ compassion fatigue’ for those I consider stupid is not right….my bad….sincerely mean that.
17 May 2011, 15:57 pm
Well Luke I am VERY glad to read your views on Vermeulen and Grant, and totally agree with you!
I hope you have matured and changed and will now do your playing talent justice when off the field
17 May 2011, 15:57 pm
Keo and co have shot their bolt well and truly with Puke… Chaps are now confused which article/thread to go to and throw insults at the King…
17 May 2011, 16:02 pm
@grant10(grant10)-77:
Moenie warrie nie Oom Grant, If people dont liek your posts they have full freedom to ignore or scroll past them.
It’s just easier to say nasty things because saying something helpful requires some insight.
Luke was good in 2009, nno doubt. But currently there is no place for him in our loose trio. Vermeulen ahead of him @8 (behind Spies and Kanko, whoever agrees with this or not), then he isn’t even in teh top 5 opendide flanks with Brussow, Steggies, Burger, Flo, Plo, Pottie and Deysel being thrown in there. So, oh well.
Maybe the public treated him unfairly, gave him too much attention, but he cetainly didn’t help matters, and it seems like he would do more damage being in the current Bok squad too with the kind of attitude that those Boks have toward him.
17 May 2011, 16:02 pm
@Heavens Game(Heavens Game)-79:
19.Heavens Game:
17 May 2011, 08:49 am
If the ref is Peyper then the Sharks are farked.
Hopefully its an Anzac ref, sorry to say…
Not sure of the trustworthiness of SA refs in this context… Except Lawrence.
well, you got you wish, Bryce Lawrence is reffing Sharks vs Bulls game.
so no excuses if the Bulls pump you at Fortress Kings Park, hey?
17 May 2011, 16:03 pm
@Heavens Game(Heavens Game)-79: Yeah I have a migrane from all these threads.
Outta here
17 May 2011, 16:04 pm
@Heavens Game(Heavens Game)-79:
Well you got to feel for these guys, there is only so much you can say about rugby itself, the teams, the Super 15, and especially when there is no big news.
17 May 2011, 16:04 pm
@grant10(grant10)-77:
thanks g10 – appreciated.
now lets all get behind whichever bok team plays at rwc11.
cheers
17 May 2011, 16:06 pm
a while back keo had the hots for jake white and all we got on this website was jake this and winning ways that – until a lovers tiff saw them go their seperate ways.
now luke watson has been invited to move into keo’s little love nest. i wonder how long it will be before lukey gets the boot and the midget starts bad-mouthing him here.
17 May 2011, 16:06 pm
@Stormersboy(stormersboy)-82:
Yeah, the name “Luke Watson” is associated with adverse phisiological responses…..
17 May 2011, 16:07 pm
physiological
17 May 2011, 16:07 pm
see? it’s happening already to me too
17 May 2011, 16:08 pm
Hows about some odes to the King Puke…
I’ll kick off with a little limerick:
Welcome back to Azansi, saviour Lukie King
Comparing yourself to Madiba, a helluva thing
While seeming to like sitting on the steeple
And puking on the Bok and the people
Who dont agree with your saviour and struggle proclaiming
17 May 2011, 16:10 pm
@Transformation(Transformation)-81: Huh… You hurt, pumpkin…? Come to Daddy…
17 May 2011, 16:10 pm
@Stormersboy(stormersboy)-82: Cheers
17 May 2011, 16:11 pm
Garbage stays garbage. It will never change. He should have stayed overseas, he has no redeeming qualitites whatsoever.
17 May 2011, 16:12 pm
@Agile T*t-Tyrant(Anairetes agilis)-83: Yup, just a bit of a monster clash come Saturday at Kings Park…
You fancy your chances?
17 May 2011, 16:12 pm
@Heavens Game(Heavens Game)-89: wtf is “Azansi”?
17 May 2011, 16:14 pm
@Heavens Game(Heavens Game)-90: tl tl tl no excuse
17 May 2011, 16:14 pm
@Heavens Game(Heavens Game)-89: That’s a limerick only in the very loosest sense of the word. You can do better. Take special note of the desired metre (poetic rhythm) and not just the AABBA rhyme. What you’re aiming for is (and forgive me for quoting myself from an earlier Luke thread):
politics, tight shirts and puke
are the strengths of young master Luke
but none of these things
are of use to the Kings
who’ll rely on some kind refs and fluke
17 May 2011, 16:15 pm
@Stormersboy(stormersboy)-51: saw pixies live 2005 and 2006, they were brilliant
17 May 2011, 16:15 pm
@BlueBlood(BlueBlood)-92: you mean like Geo Cronje & Toks van der Linde?
17 May 2011, 16:18 pm
Agile is right, this fool produces involuntary physiological responses in people… Azansi = Mzansi
17 May 2011, 16:18 pm
@Heavens Game(Heavens Game)-93:
Hell no I dont fancy my chances! Against 15+1 angry men? Unless I widen my bullbar on my cruiser.
But the Bulls! now they are in with a good chance, I think the Bulls will win by 7+ points. Around 30 points.
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