Peter de Villiers

The better selection of Peter de Villiers quotes

“People say we want to play a Peter de Villiers style of rugby. What the devil is that? Let me explain it to you,” De Villiers said.

“There was a time when we were isolated [due to apartheid] but when we came back what we didn’t do was look at where we were strong. Instead we copied the model of the Australians and became more structured. We thought that was the only model available.

“We just need to add a component to our game. We need players making decisions and playing the situation.”

“It’s been very difficult [to implement this way of thinking]. Players are so used to playing onto each other, it’s a new thing to be making split-second decisions. With this kind of game comes responsibility. I know it’s hard [for the players] because they then have to take responsibility for what they do.

“But whatever decision they make, I will support the players even though I won’t always agree with that decision.”

“We didn’t say we will win or lose, we have no control over whether we win or lose. But we don’t work to lose,” said De Villiers.