Rugby
Habana makes Div happy
2009-08-24 19:09
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Still deciding on future (Gallo)
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Pretoria - Springbok coach Peter de Villiers, always prepared to show his emotion, is obviously chuffed that Bulls' Springbok wing Bryan Habana is considering a move to another South African team as opposed to packing his bags for France's Toulon or Bayonne.
Earlier on Monday, WP Rugby confirmed that negotiations to secure the Habana's services are on-going.
"I'm so happy," said De Villiers with a broad smile.
Speaking at the final media conference before the first batch of Springboks departed for Australia on Monday night, De Villiers said: "They (South Africa's players) can player anywhere they like as long as it's in the country. I don't care where, as long as it's in the country. We're so blessed that only two players will be leaving us when everybody thought there would be an exodus after the (British and Irish) Lions tour.
"We need to look ahead at the things we want to achieve after the Tri-Nations," De Villiers said and added that he would also sit down with the players to discuss the 2011 World Cup.
Meanwhile, De Villiers wouldn't give much away afterwards, but it looked as if Ruan Pienaar will be the fullback in the place of Frans Steyn in Saturday's important Tri-Nations match against Australia in Sydney.
With the team only being announced on Thursday, flank Juan Smith still has time to convince management that his ankle has healed sufficiently to be included in the team.
On Monday Schalk Burger, available for selection after his eight weeks suspension following his eye gouging in the second Test against the British and Irish Lions on June 27, partnered Heinrich Brussow as flank when the Springboks went through their training drills.
It is however highly likely that there will be the one change, at fullback, when De Villiers announces his side. Team doctor Craig Roberts on Monday said that Smith should be ready for the clash - and Burger will probably play off the bench.