|
Habana whips the Bulls
29/04/2008 22:12 - (SA)
Hennie Brandt , Beeld
Johannesburg - It was no problem in 2006, but fingers are now being pointed at Bernie Habana for negotiating, on behalf of some rugby players, with the Blue Bulls Company
Habana, father of Springbok wing Bryan, acted on behalf of the players two years ago when he discussed the services and contracts of Springboks Wynand Olivier and Bakkies Botha with the Blue Bulls.
Habana also negotiated with the Bulls when his son decided to move from the Golden Lions to the neighbouring franchise.
As Bryan's father, he was entitled to negotiate on behalf of his son over his contract.
Habana snr has been criticised lately for allegedly supplying "incorrect advice" to Botha before the World Cup star signed an unconditional contract with a French club, Toulon.
"Why is all this fuss being made now?" Habana snr asked on Monday. "Why was it no problem for the Bulls in 2006 when I negotiated with them about Wynand and Bakkies's contracts?"
He acknowledges that he is not registered as a players' agent but says this has never been held against him.
He also admits that he has made some mistakes but he says the Blue Bulls have done the same.
"Why are all the fingers being pointed at me but nothing is being said about the Bulls?" he asked on Monday.
Habana also responded heatedly to reports that his son and Olivier would go on strike if the differences between Botha and the Bulls were not solved.
"I have a letter from (Bulls CEO) Barend van Graan in which it is alleged that threats have been made that Bryan and Wynand's services would be withheld from the Bulls."
"We never made such threats. One does not have to threaten because if you don't want to work, you simply stay away.
"My advice to the players was to be professional in their conduct towards the team and the administrators, and that they should treat everyone at the Bulls well," Habana snr said.
|
