THE FINAL WHISTLE
MARK KEOHANE: Absence makes fans grow fonder of Whiteley and Cronjé
What the Boks did achieve against France was to reignite the optimism of the South African rugby public
Warren Whiteley and Ross Cronjé’s Springboks shares rose even more in their absence as the Boks comfortably beat France in Johannesburg on Saturday to secure a 3-0 series win. Whiteley, as he had done with the Lions, immediately galvanised the 2017 Springboks. He led through an infectious enthusiasm, with calmness and also with skills more associated with loose-forwards from an era when rugby was a sport and not a business. Whiteley is an outstanding Super Rugby player and in this first season as Springbok captain, he was equally impressive as an international player. He played well and led well. His unavailability for the series finale was made easier because it made no difference to the series result, but it gave the Springboks a different feel – and it’s one that was less exciting, inviting and imposing.Sharks youngster Jean-Luc du Preez was efficient as a No8, but he was not Whiteley. The two have different skills and the Springboks, against France, were more potent with Whitele...
Would you like to comment on this article?
Sign up (it's quick and free) or sign in now.
Please read our Comment Policy before commenting.
Subscribe now to unlock this article.
Support BusinessLIVE’s award-winning journalism for R129 per month (digital access only).
There’s never been a more important time to support independent journalism in SA. Our subscription packages now offer an ad-free experience for readers.
Cancel anytime.
Questions? Email helpdesk@businesslive.co.za or call 0860 52 52 00. Got a subscription voucher? Redeem it now.