VIDEO: Should Wales invest in South African players?
WATCH as BOKS OFFICE host Hanyani Shimange alongside guests Jean de Villiers and Nick Mallett discuss Wales’ dire situation and if they should delve into South African players to strengthen their squad.
The Welsh Rugby Union confirmed on Tuesday that Warren Gatland’s tenure as head coach came to an end following 14 consecutive Test defeats.
Wales also dropped to 12th place on the World Rankings below 11th-placed Georgia and 10th-placed Italy.
Former Springbok and Italy head coach Nick Mallett suggested that investing in foreign players, who might not become Test internationals in their home country, could be the solution to Wales strengthening their national side.
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“I would say if you were to get involved as a Director of Rugby there [at Wales], have a plan to strengthen their rugby by perhaps getting overseas players,” Mallett said.
“In South Africa, we produce a massive amount of quality players.
“Some of the guys just don’t get through to the Springboks.
“But who is to say they wouldn’t become an international if they played their rugby from 22 to 25 years old [in Wales]
“Especially if you’re a prop or a lock and that’s what they need.
“They need a strong pack of forwards, they need to find a scrumhalf and flyhalf who can play properly and they’ll be up and running again.”
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