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Overseas Boks lured back
27/01/2008 22:04 - (SA)
Stephen Nell, Die Burger
Paarl - Springbok coach Peter de Villiers intends luring back, with the assistance of sponsors, some of the talented South Africans who are playing rugby abroad.
De Villiers is going overseas soon to hold discussions with certain clubs.
At a breakfast function here on Saturday, De Villiers expressed his admiration for John Smit, captain of the national team, describing him as a gifted leader.
However, the coach was unwilling to name the players he would try to bring back to South Africa.
He wants to build good relationships with overseas clubs "to be of benefit to us when we want players to be released," De Villiers said, referring to players who could be selected for the national team.
He also confirmed that there were "certain players" that he would like to have back in South Africa. It seems Smit is one of them.
"John and I had a good chat recently," he revealed.
"If we have great respect for (former All Black captain) Sean Fitzpatrick, and we have someone who has played in so many Test matches and has achieved what John has achieved, we should respect that person in the same way.
Sponsors who are interested
"I am going abroad next week to try to convince some of our players to return. I want them to play in South Africa and be role models here. There are sponsors who are interested to help us."
De Villiers also expressed admiration for former Stormers captain Luke Watson.
"Luke is one of 150 to 200 players who will be part of the Super 14 competition. The playing field is level for everyone," he replied when he was asked how Watson would fit into his plans.
"All the pressure that is heaped on Luke's shoulders is unfair towards him. I admire him as a player. He was a fine captain when he played under my coaching.
"I would have folded under the pressure that he experiences from the news media. Therefore, I respect him.
"He is a strong person and the question that I have is whether other players have the same strong character. Luke will have an opportunity, just like any other player. We will not pre-judge anyone.
De Villiers was also asked how much value he attached to the size of players.
"You don't need a big body to have a lot of brains," he joked in reference to his own playing days.
"We are going to identify talent first. The best guys will play."
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