Green light for rugby director?

2008-08-27 22:03

Stephen Nell

Cape Town - Less than 24 hours after Jake White had made himself available as South African director of rugby, the SA Rugby Union confirmed on Wednesday that the position would be discussed on Friday

"It's on the agenda," (of a president's council meeting) Saru president Organ Hoskins said on Wednesday. "But is does not mean we will make anyone an offer.

White's agent contacted Hoskins three weeks ago to offer the former Springbok coach's services as director of rugby.

"I told him it was not possible at the time because there was no certainty that there would be such a position," Hoskins said.

Even if the Saru officials decide to create such a position it would require a mind shift to welcome White back into the ranks.

White and Saru's president's council were often at loggerheads during his term as national coach.

Former Western Province coach Alan Zondagh has also thrown his name into the hat.

Zondagh, who runs the rugby academy near Riebeek West, assisted White briefly with the Springboks' attacking game during 2006.

Willing to work hard

The merits of a position for a director of rugby would depend on the job description, Zondagh said on Wednesday

"If it's someone who is willing to work hard it will be meaningful. We need someone who can equip elite players and coaches with knowledge.

"If a coach is struggling with defence, for example, who does he call to help him?"

Zondagh feels there is far too much panicking over South Africa's Tri-Nations performances this year. The source of the problems should not be sought with Springbok coach Peter de Villiers, he said.

"The problem in South Africa is the way we play in contact situations. That's not Peter's problem. Our ball carriers never dominate the contact situation.

"Take a look at Bismark du Plessis. He is a big guy but he will lose the ball eight out of ten times in contact.

"If you could solve that problem you won't have to send five guys to the contact point," Zondagh said.

"We're making a mountain out of a molehill. These are small problems that can be easily solved.

"Peter is correct in saying we should not be afraid to play with the ball. The two tries the Springboks scored against the Wallabies last week came easily when the ball was moved wide at the right time.

"Peter wants the Springboks to become a dangerous team. They'll get better if they continue to play with the ball."

- Die Burger