De Villiers told to mind his tongue

Springbok coach Peter de Villiers has been told to keep his mouth firmly sealed by the South African Rugby Union following a raft of inappropriate and irresponsible comments during the British and Irish Lions tour to South Africa.

"The assessment committee advised Peter to refrain from statements involving the Bible and to generally be more careful about what he says," said SARU president Oregan Hoskins.

"We made it clear the media wasn't there to fight with him and that they just report what they see and hear. We spent almost a day with Peter and had quite a productive meeting. I think he can put the exercise to good use."