Tuesday’s top rugby news has more McKenzie hindsight, Force roster movements, Tuqiri eyeing code-switch and key Springboks allowed to play French rugby over the weekend.
[one_half last=”no”]
Link disappointed in bench
Ewen McKenzie has lamented the poor performance of the Wallabies bench in Saturday’s second Bledisloe Test loss. Particularly disappointing were the error-filled performances of Kuridrani, Kane Douglas and Sekope Kepu, with McKenzie emphasising, ‘You want guys who come on and actually improve the performance; it’s no good if they’re coming on and knocking-on and missing tackles, and that’s effectively what happened.’
To pile on for Link, New Zealand commentators have already criticised the ARU’s decision not to promote Jake White to the top job. New Zealand Herald columnist Chris Rattue wrote yesterday. “(McKenzie) already looks and sounds like a beaten man without a rescue plan. The opening to his Wallaby reign is so unimpressive that it is already time to consider that they chose the wrong man in overlooking Jake White.’ [/one_half]
[one_half last=”yes”]
Tessman re-signs with Force
Western Force hooker Heath Tessmann has re-signed with the team for another two seasons. Tessman played 13 games for the Force and finished in the top 5 for player of the year awards. “We’re developing a forward pack that is not only skilled in the set piece but also has the ability to have an impact in the open – and Heath fits that bill,” coach Micheal Foley said. Along with re-signing the core of the forward pack, the force also welcolm the additions of South African pair Wilhelm Steenkamp and Chris Heiberg.
This news is especially important with Force front-rower James Hilterbrand announcing that he will play for Edinburgh next season. ‘James’ versatility will be very useful for us, especially when you consider the attritional nature of the front-row and immense physicality they must endure over the course of the season,’ coach Alan Solomons said. [/one_half]
[one_half last=”no”]
Tuqiri considering code-switch
Lote Tugiri has hinted at a possible return to the 15-man game with his future at the West Tigers uncertain. Tuqiri is off-contract at the end of this season and has been told by the Tiger’s that an extension is unlikely. The former Waratah has struggled to regain his fitness after lengthy sidelines stints over the past two years with a broken arm.
While the 33 year old has struggled to find form, he is reportedly keen to continue his career, at least into next season. ‘Rugby is an option as well, having some experience in it, and we’ll just see how the next few weeks pan out,’ adding, ‘ It’s been a tough two years with injuries but hopefully I am over all that bad luck.’ [/one_half]
[one_half last=”yes”]
Boks enjoy weekend in France
South Africa have released their five France-based players to play club rugby over the weekend. Missing from team preparations will be Morné Steyn (Stade Francais), Bryan Habana (Toulon), Juandré Kruger (Racing Metro), Gurthrö Steenkamp and Jano Vermaak (both Toulouse). ‘This is a unique situation and a once-off concession to these four French clubs,’ said SARU CEO Jurie Roux. The Springboks would be hoping for zero injuries for their return against Australia on September 7.
In other South African news, fans are venting their anger at halfback Ruan Pienaar’s performance on Saturday. Sport24 readers generally felt he was the worst of a bad bunch, with his error-prone display leaving coach Heyneke Meyer with a difficult selection decision for the Wallabies Test. [/one_half]
