'SA Forwards Good, Bodes Doubtful*

Northern Advocate, 28 February 1949, Page 6

'SA Forwards Good, Bodes Doubtful*

WELLINGTON. Mon. (P.A.)— I There is a feeling in South African Rugby circles today that, though the forwards -were well up to Springbok standard, the backs might suffer when compared with the giants of the past. This was stated in an interview last night by Major A. D. Ciliiers,. M.C., Commanding Officer of the Railways and Harbour Police in Capetown, and a cricket and Rugby administrator in the Western Province, who is touring New Zealand.

“That was particularly the case in the first five-eighth and fullback positions.” said Major Ciliiers,. “These same fears about the backline were held, however, regarding the 1937 Springbok tour of New Zealand, but when they were put to the test behind their fine pack they vindicated themselves,” he added. TREMENDOUS ENTHUSIASM “There is tremendous enthusiasm throughout South Africa for the forthcoming All Blacks’ tour and your fellows can be certain of a terrific welcome.

“Rugby administrators over the past few years have been devising means of increasing spectator accommodation in anticipation of the huge crowds that will want to see the’ All Blacks in action.”