Share

Ex-Bok questions respect for team management

Cape Town - Former Springbok Hennie le Roux feels there’s a lack of respect between players and the current Bok management.

Allister Coetzee’s Springboks have endured a torrid 2016, losing five of nine Tests and also made a stuttering start to their year-end European tour when they drew 31-all in a friendly match against the Barbarians last weekend.

In an interview with BBC Radio 5 live, Le Roux said “there's been quite a lot of turmoil in South African rugby" and he thinks home ground advantage will see England beat the Boks at Twickenham this weekend.

Last month's 57-15 loss to the All Blacks in Durban was a clear sign that there are serious problems in the South African camp, Le Roux believes.

"When I was fortunate to play there, one of the aspects that I experienced was to receive direction from those who were either skilled at coaching or had played at the highest level,” Le Roux said.

"When they haven't been in that environment, it's almost as if it doesn't carry the same weight. I think there's a significant lack of respect towards the South African management team, in terms of having the players' respect and the players acknowledging when they're being spoken to by someone who's informed and has had the experience.”

Le Roux said questions need to be asked as to why the team collapsed to badly in the second half against New Zealand, when they conceded 45 points.

"Is it the character of the players? Is it in the guidance and support they are receiving or is it something more deeply rooted in the make-up of the team. If they are ever ripe for the taking, it is now.”

The 49-year-old Le Roux played 27 Tests for the Springboks between 1993 and 1996.

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% - 1273 votes
No! I think the smart thing to do is start again with a younger skipper ...
29% - 1470 votes
I'd keep Siya captain for now, but look to have someone else for 2027.
45% - 2249 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