Aussie spies annoy Viljoen, SMith
August 21, 2001

Springbok coach Harry Viljoen and All Blacks counterpart Wayne Smith have been annoyed by the presence of Australian "spies" at their training sessions and said the three Tri-Nations coaches should agree to refrain from such practises.

"I always thought it was a gentleman's agreement (not to spy on opponents), but as a businessman I fear to see where rugby is going," Viljoen said. "If this is what is happening, it actually puts you in a very difficult position.

"I wouldn't like to see rugby go this way. I was warned about it by the (British) Lions. They also said they had the same problem (this year in Australia). And we actually experienced it.

"It's a pity and if that's what rugby's all about then I'm not too sure I want to be involved in the game. I don't think New Zealand would consider it because we're not considering it."

Viljoen was angered by one of Jones' friends, Damien Holden, recording a Springboks' training session on video last week in Perth. "What happened last week was quite an issue for us. It's sad and disappointing for the sport."

As a result, the Boks will not open any training session to the public in Auckland this week.

Smith said current Australian centre Nathan Grey took notes on the All Blacks' training in Sydney last year.

"I spoke to (then coach) Rod Macqueen about it, we had a bit of laugh about it but clearly it's been where teams have been putting a bit of effort. I'd say he (Viljoen) has got every right to have suspicions." - Sapa

Live Sports

Communication error please reload the page.

ABOUT COOKIES

To help make this website better, to improve and personalize your experience and for advertising purposes, are you happy to accept cookies and other technologies.

More Info Here Cookie Choices