Matfield: 'Leadership not a problem'
Veteran Springbok lock Victor Matfield believes that the senior players in the South African team provide enough leadership expertise for the on-field captaincy not to be a major issue.
The debate surrounding incumbent captain John Smit’s place in the team, amidst a strong challenge from Bismarck du Plessis for the hooker’s berth, has raised leadership questions.
While the 33-year-old Smit will lead the Boks to the World Cup, his deputy Matfield could be the on-field captain whenever called upon.
And Bulls veteran Matfield is confident that the team has enough experience to cope with any team selection variations.
“I do enjoy the leadership responsibility but I don’t think it is a big issue in this team because we are so experienced and the guys know each other so well after playing together for such a long time,” Matfield told the media.
“We have been together as a team a long time and we have world-class, experienced players in several key positions. I take charge of the line-outs, Fourie du Preez takes charge of other aspects such as the kicking and the decision-making, and Jean de Villiers is there to give direction to the outside backs.”
Scrumhalf Du Preez’s return to the side will be a massive boost, as he is a player capable of dictating the game to the opposition with his clever decision-making.
“I don’t think it is in any secret that we missed Fourie a bit last year and it is great to have him back.
“The big thing he brings is his decision-making ability,” Matfield stressed.
Butch James echoed Matfield’s praise for Du Preez and is looking forward to renewing his partnership with his 2007 World Cup-winning halfback partner.
“I have played often enough with both Fourie and with Jean (de Villiers) that this week has been like getting back onto a bicycle for me,” said James.
“Fourie’s whole game is brilliant, and he takes a lot of pressure off you as a flyhalf because he is such a good kicker and decision-maker. It also helps when you have a good No.12 outside you, and I have that in Jean.
“Fourie was injured last year, so I didn’t get to play with him and it is quite a long time since I lined up between him and Jean, but it has gone well in training.”
