Dowd's criticism of De Villiers causes offence
NZPA
July 9, 2008

The South African Honorary Consul in New Zealand has hit out at former All Black Craig Dowd, who called new Springbok rugby coach Peter de Villiers a puppet.

Dowd questioned the credentials de Villiers on Newstalk ZB, saying he had some good staff around him but was merely a "puppet". It was yet to be seen if he knew anything about rugby, he said.

South African Honorary Consul Gregory Fortuin today called on Dowd to apologise for the comment.

Fortuin said he had the utmost respect for Dowd's achievements and ability as an All Black prop, but found his personal attack on the Springbok coach offensive.

It was up to the South African Rugby Union to defend the coach's rugby credentials which included both club and international age-grade success, he said.

Dowd's comments come during a war of words between the All Blacks and Springboks after an at times violent first test in Wellington on Saturday.

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