Mains determined to prevent Pienaar departure
September 22, 2000

Former Springbok assistant coach Gysie Pienaar said he had his "arm twisted" and in the end decided to stay in South Africa for another year.

Cats coach Laurie Mains said he had heard rumours Pienaar was considering taking his coaching career overseas. "That would have been a huge setback for the Cats and for South African rugby. I have deep respect for Gysie.

"His inclusion within the coaching structure also means the Cats' management is more fully representative of the region. The Cats cannot afford to be seen as a Lions team."

Pienaar said: "Laurie phoned me and asked if I would do it and after several of the players contacted me with the same request, I decided to stay on for another year."

"It's pleasing for me to know the boys care. So, yes, I had my arm twisted, and now I'm involved in this thing for another year. We'll have to see how it goes."

On the prospect of working with the Cats backs, Pienaar said: "There are many oustanding players in the backline and I hope I can help them. It's a challenge for me. I've built up a large amount of know-how over the years and that can be of value to the team."

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