S. African rugby could turn pro—Springbok

Press, 7 October 1988, Page 17

S. African rugby could turn pro—Springbok

PA Sydney The Springbok first five eighth, Naas Botha, believes South African rugby is nearing professionalism as administrators seek ways to get around the international boycott. Botha, who left his homeland at the week-end for Italy, said South African rugby administrators wouldn’t sit by and do nothing to mark the centenary of the sport in the republic next year. “If the rugby world thinks it doesn't need us, we have to think of the possibility of professionalism,” Botha told the “Sydney Morning Herald.” "I personally don’t want to see the start of pro-rugby, but we have to do something to

get ourselves out of isolation. "We are trying our best to integrate the sport, but we’re getting little recognition for it. "Our game will be in trouble unless we get one international competition in the next year or two,” Botha said. A proposed tour to South Africa this year by a World XV fell through when several countries, including New Zealand, refused to allow players to take part. Botha, whose appearance for Northern Transvaal at the week-end was the last of his first-class career, also denied claims that he had betrayed his amateur status in Italy. Imported players, two per club, are given free accomo-

dation and cars, with rumours they also receive cash payments. “The things I have back home — a salary, a home, and a car — I get here. But I am not paid to go on a field and try and win a game,” Botha said. He added that he was paid to coach rugby in schools, not for playing. A strong follower of Australian and New Zealand rugby, he said if the Australians had won the World Cup they would have toured South Africa. Botha has tipped the Australians to encounter problems with the Italians when the two sides play during Australia’s imminent European tour.