Fiji rugby – a sobering glimpse of South Africa’s future 

Enjoyed another first this weekend being among 80 000 rugby fans watching England at Twickenham. It was a spectacle even though the opponents, Olympic Gold medalists in Rugby Sevens Fiji, were never in the game. After running in four tries in the first quarter, Eddie Jones-coached England stepped off the gas but still ended with a record 58-15 victory.

It was a sobering experience for a Springbok supporter. In a one-on-one comparison, the powerfully built Fiji players matched their counterparts. But the game revealed the massive difference between a team coached by a master tactician and a bunch of tryers. It illustrated the chasm between calm, well-drilled professionals and emotive, enthusiastic amateurs.

England rugby has no hangups about the racial makeup of a team where black players substantially exceed their 13% demographic share. And its leaders employ the best coach they could find, who just happens to be Australian. Their fans are reaping the rewards. In contrast to the politically-correct juggling pressures which has turned the once mighty Springboks warriors into a dispirited bunch. Witness their fresh humiliation in Florence on Saturday.

Fiji offers a pointer to the future of South African rugby and, indeed, the country itself. On the weekend, eight Fijian wings were on duty for international teams because the nation’s most talented players seek a better life elsewhere. In last year’s Rugby World Cup, 16 South African-born players represented other countries. Their number is growing. This sends a broader message to the drifting nation. Warning flags are waving. But is anyone seeing them?

Visited 64 times, 1 visit(s) today