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Paulse to hang up his boots?
21/01/2008 22:27 - (SA)
Stephen Nell, Die Burger
Cape Town - Springbok wing Breyton Paulse may retire from rugby next week. He plans to decide about his future on Monday.
Paulse's agent, Craig Livingstone, said on Monday there were still options at overseas clubs for the 31-year-old Western Province icon "but he may decide to stop playing. He also has some business options."
Paulse was evasive when he was asked about his plans. "I'm still deciding. I should have an answer by Monday next week," he said.
The veteran's name came up after the Stormers' 72-10 victory in a Super 14 warm-up match against Boland last weekend.
Despite a reasonable performance, the lack of experience among the wings was clear. Fijian Sireli Naqelevuki looked dangerous on the attack but Tonderai Chavhanga's work rate was below par.
Chavhanga is also rather injury prone and there may therefore be a role for Paulse to play.
Centre Corné Uys, who operated on the wing on occasion last season, has a serious knee injury and won't play Super 14 rugby this year.
Played for the Springboks in the Tri-Nations
And there is no wing in the Western Cape with Paulse's ability to kick with his left foot.
Rob Wagner, managing director of Western Province Rugby (Pty) Ltd, said on Monday the union had already said goodbye to Paulse and that Stormers coach Rassie Erasmus had not discussed Paulse with him.
Paulse has played for a French club, Clermont, but according to reports, he did not enjoy it much.
He still played for the Springboks in the Tri-Nations competition last year but failed to make the World Cup squad.
Paulse also has an invitation from Cheetahs coach Naka Drotské to move to Bloemfontein for a few months.
"We are rather thin at fullback and I feel Breyton can be rather dangerous in that position," Drotské said on Monday.
"Bevin Fortuin is expected to return only in March. At this stage, Hennie Daniller is the only fullback we have.
"There was some initial interest but I have not heard anything from Breyton since leaving a message on his phone early in January. I take it he is no longer interested but we are rather interested in his services."
The Stormers also have former Lions wing Wylie Human who still has to be given an opportunity to show his class.
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Rugby
