Share

Luke apologises - 'I was wrong'

Philip de Bruin

Cape Town – Luke Watson is sorry for the mistakes he made and wants to return to South Africa.

Watson, who unleashed a torrent of fury by saying that he had to keep himself from vomiting on the Springbok jersey, talks about his errors in judgment in the latest edition of SA Rugby magazine.

“I now understand why so many people in South Africa didn’t like me. I was a political pawn, even if I had good intentions,” he said.

The former Springbok loose forward is currently the captain of English club side Bath.

“If I could get the chance again, I would do a lot of things differently. I regret going to the camp (of former Springbok coach Jake White in 2007) knowing that the coach did not want me there,” said Watson.

“I did things that were not always my own choice. In reality I was a political pawn. I had good intentions and wanted to promote a certain cause.

“But I also knew that I did not want to be there – just as little as Jake and the other players wanted me there. Looking back I was wrong.

“Was I the positive influence I was supposed to be? No. Was I constructive enough in my approach? No.

“I should not have been there.”

Watson said he had unfinished business in South Africa and would like to return to make a “constructive contribution” and be a “good role model” for young rugby players.
We live in a world where facts and fiction get blurred
Who we choose to trust can have a profound impact on our lives. Join thousands of devoted South Africans who look to News24 to bring them news they can trust every day. As we celebrate 25 years, become a News24 subscriber as we strive to keep you informed, inspired and empowered.
Join News24 today
heading
description
username
Show Comments ()
Voting Booth
Should Siya Kolisi keep the captaincy as the Springboks build towards their World Cup title defence in 2027?
Please select an option Oops! Something went wrong, please try again later.
Results
Yes! Siya will only be 36 at the next World Cup. He can make it!
26% - 1271 votes
No! I think the smart thing to do is start again with a younger skipper ...
29% - 1469 votes
I'd keep Siya captain for now, but look to have someone else for 2027.
45% - 2240 votes
Vote
Editorial feedback and complaints

Contact the public editor with feedback for our journalists, complaints, queries or suggestions about articles on News24.

LEARN MORE