On the 24th March, 2012, Fourie du Preez, turns 30 years young.
Young.
Another, who last held the Webb Ellis for ransom also turned 30 on the last day of 2011. He has signed on for 4 more years, body willing, in All Black. All of that is to say that this question should not be construed as being cast in light of the previous owner’s official demise.
In fact, Meyer has provided indication that locale has no limitation for a Springbok heart, meaning the Bullet in the Bulls and Springbok gun that nows calls the Suntory Goliath’s, his rugby home in the land of the rising sun, can potentially still be part of the Springbok future.
Is this realistic?
While there are examples of players, such as Peter Grant and even, Tony “Fathertime” Brown, coming back to Super level rugby in 2011 from some playing time in Japan, it would be asking much of the cherished fixture in 9, post the injury period that took away his cutting edge, evident in the Springboks season of 2011.
However, there is talk.
Justifiably referenced as the number one, halfback [scrumhalf] in “his” day, his decision to move away from South Africa is potentially providing one serious question that this year’s SupeRugby should practically answer.
Who is the next General in 9?
This situation has come to ahead, in my head, in light of a very recent piece where iamjonnyking discussed some words from the new King in South Africa, Heyneke Meyer.
The locus of these words related to the importance of decision-making in how his Springboks would play their game. Given this reality; his history with the Bulls; his gameplan that activated the 9 as dominant, and you have a situation asking for a player… Or, equally as interesting, is the time ripe for a change in the plan?
Given Meyer’s insistence, one can consider any number of names, even those plying their trade outside of the Republic – du Preez, Pienaar, Pretorius, Kockett, Claasens. However, talent will defeat some, while opportunity others. The name that is likely to lead in discussion is, Francois Hougaard. There is no doubting his physical gifts that can be exhibited even out on the flank – wing. The question still remains to be answered as to whether he has the tactical nous to match his physical frame. The boy needs time in the holster. Will he even have a full season in 9, with Jano Vermaak, now very much full of Bull?!
Charl Macleod was also in the mix in 2011, but his horizon does not appear looming as the next best thing.
Change?
When one considers the talk of the talent coming through in South African rugby, there are multiple noises about those wearing the number 10. Lambie was talked about as the next big thing, and while he has proven more than capable in 15, the talk now rests atop of the Grey Goose. To be sure, other names are also given a fair hearing, underscoring a potential resurgence of the dominant South African, 10.
Nevertheless, while this all remains very premature, as most are still starting their next phase at a Super level, is South Africa now on the cusp of a return to the glory days of Northern Transvaal rugby?
Naasty.
Hmmm; questions, questions, questions.
Maybe you can provide some answers.
Who is the South African man to wear the number 9?
Some inside perspectives!
What about this 10?
Again, inside this potential rise!
What Say You?
Until Next Time
iamjonnyking
I’m a Hougaard man, myself. Meyer’s reasoning is that the team needs experience, but I don’t buy it. Hougaard is an incredible player, who needs to (and I have no doubt will) grow into his role. Also, we’ve seen time and time again that players played out of position eventually receive the kiss of death label: utility back. From which very few recover.
He is the obvious next man in line, and needs to be given time, but his game to-date has not been built on such a tactically astute base, which has been the outworking of the Meyer blueprint. Personally, I wouldn’t go back, installing him as Captain. I may encourage him to try again, and prove his spot. I philosophically understand why Meyer would follow in kind. He may also be thinking about the young 10s coming through, and he may think this is the best transition toward their development.
Meyer has indicated that his wisdom will come from more than one, which should at least, translate into those challenging the wisdom of this idea, should it loom likely. It was only when I wrote this brief piece that I realised the lack of depth in this position in SA rugby. There was a time when it seemed like a cup overflowing. Interesting times.
Interesting times indeed, mate. It never rains, it pours. And it’s never just a dry spell – but a all-destroying drought! Here’s hoping for some fair weather …
And the terra to prove a little firma, down south.