By Alec Hogg
In 111 years since their first rugby test match, Ireland had beaten the Springboks just six times, the biggest previous victory a 32-15 anomaly in 2006. On Saturday night, the Irish smashed the SA team 38-3. Fans are distraught. But the iron-clad laws of economics tell us it was inevitable.
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In the real world, after a marketplace is freed up – as rugby has been in recent years – talent will always move to where it is best rewarded. Which means that like it has been happening in football for decades, the cream of rugby’s crop from weaker economies is relocating to clubs in Europe. South African rugby selectors have been slow to appreciate this economic reality.
With the odd exception, Springbok selection requires a player to ply their trade at home. So next time the Springboks get a hiding from a supposedly weaker rugby nation, don’t fall for the fans favourite of blaming the coach, tactics, racial quotas or the development programme.
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The real culprit is SA Rugby’s archaic selection system. Until that is brought into the 21st century, it is impossible to argue with those Welshmen who dub the team they face on December 2 as “Springbok imposters”. Time for Economics 101 gentlemen.
