The Springboks will not have the support of their former head coach, Peter de Villiers when they participate at the upcoming Rugby World Cup.
In an exclusive interview with Planet Rugby, De Villiers, who coached the two‑time world champions from 2008 to 2011, revealed that he finds it difficult to support his former side after allegations of racism were made against Springbok lock Eben Etzebeth shortly before the team’s departure for the global showpiece in Japan.
"It could result in more people deserting the Springboks for other teams."
— Planet Rugby (@PlanetRugby) September 12, 2019
Peter de Villiers unhappy over handling of Eben Etzebeth's alleged incident.
Read our exclusive interview here. 👉 https://t.co/U6H7XzpfLb #RWC2019 pic.twitter.com/phMFrbXPw8
Etzebeth was accused of hurling a racial slur and assaulting a homeless man outside a bar – an allegation which the 27‑year‑old strenuously denied via a statement on social media.
De Villiers feels the 79‑Test second‑row should have been suspended by South Africa Rugby pending an investigation by the organisation into the allegations against him.
South Africa will take on the All Blacks at 9.45pm next Saturday in the Rugby World Cup.
[Source:Planet Rugby]
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