Former Springbok rugby captain Bob Skinstad is looking to play overseas in the forseeable future — for a while at least. With his contract originally scheduled to end in December 2004, the player has opted to terminate it this month.
Skinstad held discussions with the acting managing director of SA Rugby (Pty) Ltd, Songezo Nayo, on Monday and emphasised that the break meant he could still consider plying his trade in South Africa at a later stage.
”I have had time to think about what I would like to do going forward,” said Skinstad. ”I believe the right thing for me to do is to take a break from South African rugby. I will be assessing my options and making a decision in the next few weeks, about where I would like to play.
”South African rugby has been very good to me over the years, and I would still like to play, but feel that a break to explore other opportunities will be a good move for me. I am not closing any doors and may, in the future, look at playing for South Africa again.”
Nayo said Skinstad had been a great player for South Africa at many levels, and had been a good ambassador for SA rugby over the years.
”After such an outstanding career, we are glad that he is not entirely cutting ties with SA rugby,” said Nayo.
”We sincerely hope he will find a way to be part of the local rugby set up in the near future.
”He has shown incredible leadership qualities that have had a positive impact on our rugby. We definitely wish him all the best in the new direction he is embarking on.” – Sapa