Are we in the squad?

2003-07-21 22:11

Herbert Pretorius

Cape Town - Jorrie Muller and Gus Theron reacted with disbelief on Monday night to news of their inclusion in the Springbok Tri-Nations rugby touring squad.

Their selection was the biggest surprise in the team announced by national coach Rudolf Straeuli. Lukas van Biljon (hooker) and Neil de Kock (scrumhalf) are the other "newcomers" to the group of 28 for the Australasian leg of the Boks' Tri-Nations campaign.

Outside centre André Snyman was the only player to be dropped after the drubbing received at the hands of the All Blacks at Loftus on Saturday.

Scrumhalf Joost van der Westhuizen's position had also been in danger, but Straeuli said his presence was important. "He will help to alleviate the pressure on Corné Krige (captain) in the coming weeks," said the coach.

Straeuli said he wanted to prevent a repetition of last year's disastrous tour to the UK and Europe, when too many inexperienced players were included in the squad.

"It still feels unreal," said Theron about his inclusion. "I never thought I was in Straeuli's immediate plans, since I was not part of any of the earlier practice groups. In fact, I've not been notified officially that I'm in the squad. I think I'll start celebrating when Straeuli phones me."

Hennie Brandt reports from Johannesburg that Muller never expected to be selected. "It's difficult to believe that I'm in the team. It's something one dreams about. I have been preparing myself to play for the Lions against the Pumas on Saturday. I can't wait to play against the Wallabies or the All Blacks," said Muller on Monday night.

Straeuli said Muller's versatility and Theron's speed counted in their favour.

- Die Burger