Rugby in 2024 and beyond
First, a reflection. In fact, let’s go back to where it all started. 1995, when no one gave South Africa even the finest of chances to win a rugby match let alone a World Cup. And they certainly laid their mark by winning their opening match against then current world champions, Australia. I believe THAT laid the mark for this nation to achieve anything they dream of. Fast forward to 2007 (because NO ONE wants to be reminded of that awful defeat to Australia in the Semi Final of RWC 1999 or that horrendous 29 - 9 defeat to New Zealand in the Quarter Final of RWC 2003 - or maybe the only thing that comes to mind of that year is “Kamp Staaldraad”) and ever since Jake White took over from Harry Viljoen, everyone was thrilled. He started fresh. Yes, there were some “outoppies” in the squad (John Smit, Victor Matfield, Bakkies Botha, Os du Randt - who came out of reitrement - to name a few) but most of them were in their early/late 20’s. With the youngest player in the team being only 20 y