Putt says sorry

Controversial Kiwi Kevin Putt, the former Terenure College coach, has apologised to Springbok Victor Matfield after accusing the second row of carrying 'steel' in his arm guard in the Tri-Nations win over New Zealand.

"Quite rightly, I am the villain of the piece," Putt was quoted as saying.

"I had been on this rugby show giving my opinion on the Bok victory. When asked about the Kelleher incident, I suggested the tackle was not late.

"When pressed, I suggested that if they were to look for any fault the only question would be about the steel plate in his arm.

"This was a gaffe by me because I had meant to say 'fibre-glass', not steel, which he wears for projection for an old injury."

South African liaison manager Rayaan Adriaanse confirmed that Putt had offered his apology and said that the Springbok team management had accepted the gesture of reconciliation.