Percy ready to play for WP

2008-08-31 22:40

Stephen Nell

Johannesburg - Percy Montgomery could be playing for Western Province on Saturday, a week after retiring from international rugby.

The veteran of 102 Test matches also hopes to play Super 14 rugby for the Stormers next year.

"I hope to play for the Stormers next season, but at the moment I'm focussing on Western Province. If my form is good enough, I could link up with the Stormers," Montgomery said after playing in his last Test match here on Saturday.

WP, who are fifth on the points table, play the Currie Cup champions, the Cheetahs, in Bloemfontein this week. The Free Staters are third.

'Showed great character'

The 34-year-old Montgomery announced his retirement after South Africa's 53-8 Tri-Nations victory over Australia in Johannesburg on Saturday.

During a career that began in 1997, he scored 893 points for the Springboks.

"It was unbelievable. The guys showed great character," he said of his last international.

"The game plan came off well. To score 50 points against any team is incredible."

Speaking about his decision to retire from international rugby, Montgomery said: "Not many players can choose when they want to go. That is what makes today (Saturday) so special. I know the time has come for me to turn my back on Test rugby.

"I had many unforgettable moments in the Springbok jersey. It was a privilege to play for my country in some of the best teams the world has seen.

"It was a highlight for me every time I put on a Springbok jersey.

More time with family

"I'd like to thank all the coaches who helped me hone my talent, as well as the teammates who experienced the highs and the lows with me."

Montgomery also thanked the present Springbok coaches for allowing him to play in his 100th Test match.

He indicated that he would like to spend more time with his family, but that he was eager to remain involved in the game.

"There are different roles in coach, such as kicking and improving skills. Rugby is what I know and I don't want to walk away from it," he said.

- Die Burger