/ 15 August 1997

Du Plessis keeps Bok coaching job

FRIDAY, 12.30PM:

SPRINGBOK rugby coach Carel du Plessis is likely to retain his job until the end of the year. No decision was taken on his future in the coaches meeting called by SA Rugby Football Union president Louis Luyt at Ellis Park on Thursday, but the plans set in motion reinforced his position.

The meeting decided to appoint a technical advisory committee to assist Du Plessis. The commitee, which will be chosen by Du Plessis, his assistant Gert Smal and Louis Luyt, will look at the form, weaknesses, strengths and other aspects of players’ form throughout the season.

Meanwhile, the Free State Rugby Union (FSRU) has decided to support Natal’s pending court action against Sarfu. Natal is against Surfu’s regionalisation of next year’s Super 12 rugby competition. FRSU CEO Johan Botes said: “We are sorry that this situation must land in court, but we are of the opinion that there is evidently no other way to resolve this matter.”