Smit best hooker in world - coach
by Brenden Nel 03 September 2011, 06:40
With a quote that definitely won’t please a firm section of Springbok fans, Coach Peter de Villiers has settled the debate about who will start the team’s Rugby World Cup opener against Wales in Wellington next Sunday.
The Boks have been sidestepping the “elephant in the room” and have not spoken publicly about the blistering form of Bismarck du Plessis and the rivalry for the hooking position with captain John Smit.
Du Plessis was a giant in the Boks' win over the All Blacks in Port Elizabeth, and while Smit’s leadership skills are unmatched, Du Plessis is clearly the leading hooker in world rugby at the moment.
But De Villiers, when quizzed by the New Zealand media on the subject, made it clear he would be considering Smit his best option ahead of next weekend’s World Cup opener.
“John is the best hooker in the world,” De Villiers answered the question, pointing to unqualified support for his campaign, “so we will be very sensible when we make selections for the match.”
Sensing an uncomfortable buzz after the coach’s answer, Smit jumped in and showed some of the great tact he is known for.
“The coach talking like that reminds me of my wife -- she always thinks I am the most handsome guy in the world as well,” Smit said to laughter.
“Obviously I prefer hooker but in the last couple of years i've been playing wherever it’s been good enough for the team.”
Asked about the rivalry with Du Plessis, who will also play a massive part in the team’s fortunes during this World Cup, Smit said he wasn’t fazed by the competition.
“It is part and parcel of any Springbok's career. There are always people coming up, but that just keeps you training harder and harder.”
Still, De Villiers will start with Smit at hooker for the first game. After that, the way he handles the dynamic between his three hookers will play a very important role in the fortunes of the team.