Brumbies track Springbok youngster
August 26, 2002

This year's Super 12 finalists ACT Brumbies are tracking South Africa U21 skipper Clyde Rathbone.

The Cape Times reports that the Australian side hope to sign the twenty one year old centre who led the young Boks to the World U21 crown.

The newspaper quoted Brumbies spokesman David Pembroke who said, "I can confirm there are discussions taking place with Clyde. We rate him as a good footballer and we believe there is place for him in our side.

"Clyde has vision, is strong on attack and defence and is also a very good leader. Those are the sort of qualities we can work with here."

Rathbone, who has been sidelined with a groin injury for the past two months, is in no hurry to make a decision.

"While I'm very happy in Natal, I'd be stupid not to consider it as my folks are considering emigrating," he said.

"I am under contract with the Sharks until the end of the year, so there is no rush. The most important thing for me is to play and start games," he said.

Rathbone was offered a chance to play in Australia last year with the Waratahs but turned it down after then Sharks coach Rudolf Straeuli insisted the youngster was part of his Currie Cup plans.

Rathbone has an Australian grandparent and so could choose to play for the Wallabies. Rathbone told the newspaper, "I am keeping my options open. At this stage I am only considering it. I have made no commitment either way."

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