Ex Supersport by Dr Brendon Venter
With injuries a constant diet in a competition as gruelling as Super Rugby, I believe the currency of versatility and the depth of one’s playing squad cannot be undersold.
While injury is one of a number of variables that are out of a coach’s control, one of the elements a mentor can influence is the makeup of his squad. There is a degree of foresight in planning ahead.
In the Sharks’ case, for example, the departed Rudolf Straeuli and John Plumtree deserve credit for having assembled a versatile, well-balanced unit, which is now ultimately to Jake White’s benefit.
Conversely, I believe it’s no coincidence that the sides that have struggled after nine rounds of competitive action are those that lack the influence of multipurpose players within their makeup.
A number of sides, notably the Stormers, are struggling owing to injuries to key players and a subsequent lack of versatility and experience as far as their wider playing squad is concerned.
In the not-too-distant past, a commonly-held perception suggested that a versatile backline player was more often than not seen as a Jack of all trades, master of none. However, a player of Francois Steyn’s pedigree, for instance, serves to debunk that outdated myth. (Please notwe ou maaaikie!)
Moreover, owing to the high attrition rate in the professional era, the need for modern players in the oval game to be able to occupy more than one position takes on even greater significance.
The value of Steyn to the Sharks, and the Springboks for that matter, is immeasurable owing to the fact that he can comfortably fulfill a handful of positions in the backline if called upon. (Pleae note ou maaaikie)
Similarly, during my time at Saracens, we deliberately signed Argentinean utility-back Marcelo Bosch due to the fact that he could play at 10, 12, 13 and 15. While a more than accomplished rugby player in his own right, his versatility was his most redeemable quality. In the same breath, loose forwards who can play lock, such as Willem Alberts and Michael Rhodes, are worth their weight in gold. (Alberts axctually is abetter lock and may surprise as beinmg the lock partner to Etzebeth. Mobile for a lock and powerful at tight quarters. Keep praying we dont go backwards by having wee victor!!)
Returning to Steyn – the youngest ever player to win a Rugby World Cup at the age of 20 – he truly is a gift from the rugby gods. While he was injured for the lion’s share of my time at the Sharks, I was well aware of the special qualities he possessed and thus started him in the Currie Cup semifinal.(Please note ou maaaikie!)
During my playing career, to be quite honest, I did not possess the self-same core skills required to transition seamlessly from centre to flyhalf. Fundamentally, I lacked a sound kicking game and my ball distribution was not on the same level as Steyn’s. While he started the Super Rugby season at centre, he possesses the distributional skills and tactical understanding to play at pivot.
However, from a professional coaching point of view, the true measure of Steyn’s credentials at ten will arrive in the coming weeks if White opts to retain him in that role (WEhich is as I said what jake must do!). While Steyn is undeniably a multifaceted player, as he’s not a traditional ten, the opposition will seek to discover his "kryptonite".
Another player who is equally as influential is one Israel Folau. While the Wallaby traditionally wears the No 15 jersey, he is a multi-skilled player whose absence has been keenly felt by the Waratahs.
The Sydney-based side started the season brilliantly and much of their impressive play revolved around the 25-year-old. Simply put, the Waratahs are not the same team without Folau’s ingenuity. (But there are some halfwits who think injuries are no excuse - think rooitwit - when will he learn one ask!)
What makes Folau such a unique player is that he possesses the ability to float seamlessly between positions.
Having played Aussie Rules and Rugby League he offers a new dimension to the rugby union.
In fact, aside from Steyn, if one had to draw up the ideal rugby player, Folau would represent the perfect prototype. I believe there aren’t enough superlatives to underline his value and versatility. (Please note ou maaaike)
In terms of your favourite Super Rugby side, which player do you regard as your most multifaceted?
How about Willie le Roux. he could play fullback, wing and flyhalf.
