Viljoen offers lifeline to overseas Boks
October 12, 2000

Harry Viljoen has an open mind to picking overseas-based players, but hasn't discussed the issue with the SA Rugby Football Union yet.

Viljoen told a newspaper: "If you look at what happens in a professional sport like soccer, it does appear that it's possible for overseas players to be called back when their international team is playing. I do believe that is the way for the future.

"But I have not discussed this with Sarfu yet, and they may have different ideas and good reasons for wanting to retain the current situation. Let's just say that I have an open mind on the issue."

Former Bok coach Nick Mallett was opposed to the idea, while Sarfu are understandably reluctant to change their ruling as this could lead to an even greater exodus of players.

Bok lock Selborne Boome's (pictured) two-year contract with a French club is an example of how increasingly difficult it's becoming for players to turn down the lure of foreign lucre - the only deterrent being that they discount themselves for national selection.

Chief executive Rian Oberholzer told the Cape Argus the ban on overseas-based players representing South Africa was a Sarfu policy and not up to the coach.

"We'll explain our reasons for this policy but if Harry disagrees and can convince us otherwise we'll take it up with the executive," said Oberholzer.

Meanwhile, Viljoen is still to finalise his management team, with former Bok and Sharks coach Ian McIntosh being mooted as a strong candidate to take charge of the forwards. Viljoen is meeting with McIntosh on Thursday.

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