Botha hits out at White

Former Springbok captain Naas Botha has angrily lashed out at Jake White, saying that the South African rugby public has had enough of the South Africa coach’s excuses.

Botha, who was White’s manager at the IRB Under-21 championship in 2002 and 2003, and widely considered as Springbok manager this year, is considered a close confidante of the beleaguered coach, who has won just four of his 10 Tests this year and lost five in a row away from home.

Botha told the Business Day that White and his management should accept responsibility for the dismal 32-15 record loss to Ireland in Dublin on Saturday.

“We are tired of excuses,” said Botha.

“France admitted after their 47-3 defeat against New Zealand last weekend that they had been beaten by a better team.

“No one forced the Bok management to leave the best players at home, it was their decision but it is also their responsibility to ensure that the players they take on tour can play at that level.”

Botha also questioned why several players had been played out of position in their tests.

“You do not see (New Zealand flyhalf) Dan Carter playing wing or fullback and (New Zealand flank and captain) Richie McCaw playing out of position,” said Botha.

“So why are we doing it? It is better to give a player who has proven himself in a certain position the opportunity to show what he can do at international level in that position.”

Botha also rejected the suggestion that the conditions had had an adverse effect on South Africa but still said that the Springboks had what it takes to beat the English, who have now lost seven in a row and are in just as dire straits as their opposition.

“South Africa and England are in a similar situation at the moment because both teams are having a bad run. It is going to be a tough game because we have no confidence but England’s confidence is also shattered.

“We have what it takes to beat England but the players have to be played in their best positions and the player combinations have to be right.

“The Springboks’ performance in general has to improve significantly from that against Ireland.”