Statement by SARU president, Oregan Hoskins
25 August 2008 (Posted: 16:41)
“I would like to make it clear that Springbok coach Peter de Villiers, his management team and playing squad have my unequivocal backing and that of the South African Rugby Union president’s council and of the board of SA Rugby (Pty) Ltd.
“Although we share and understand the frustration and disappointment of supporters. Speculation about the coach’s future is pointless.
“The two most disappointed people in South Africa today are, in fact, Peter de Villiers and captain Victor Matfield and we know they will be doing everything in their power to achieve victory at Coca-Cola Park in Johannesburg on Saturday.
“And let me put an end to speculation that the post-Vodacom Tri-Nations review will in some way be pivotal to the future of the coach. That is not the case. It is an entirely normal quarterly review such as every Springbok coach has undergone.
“I would like to underline that Peter’s future is secure – we are not in the business of sacking Springbok coaches within three months of them playing their first match.”