adminPaul Munyuki Harare Bureau
WITH the Sables’ showdown against Russia in the World Cup qualifier play-off just 16 days away, Cheetahs and Old Georgians backliner Justin Coles believes infighting in the game should stop if the team is to be a success.Selection has always been an issue when it comes to national team, especially in rugby, where some people are quick to throw the race card if left out of the touring squad.
Former Sables manager Losson Mtongwiza claimed there was institutional racism in the Zimbabwe Rugby Union.
Coles says it’s difficult to see how the game will move forward as there are a lot of grudges and agendas devouring the sport.
The former Zimbabwe Under-20 and St John’s College winger took to Facebook where he expressed his concern over racism, grudges and comments passed by people who claim to have rugby at heart.
“It is extremely sad to see that in our country this wonderful game that I love is being torn apart by personal grudges held against certain individuals and that race has become such a large barrier for Zimbabwean Rugby’s success.
“As a player I have been fortunate enough to experience the game in many different environments. From the local NRL to the international stage, I have played alongside people from diverse backgrounds and one thing which never stood in the way was wealth, status, religion and RACE,” said Coles.
Over the years, selection has also been a very topical issue from the Sables right down to the Under-13 side that takes part in the Craven Week schools festival in South Africa.
“There will always be those who criticise their national team when times are hard and there will never be a selection where everyone is happy with the team that is selected,” said Coles.
“As soon as you put the jersey on, it makes no difference where you come from, how much money you have, or the colour of your skin.
“All that matters is that you trust the men on either side of you and you would do anything not to let them down.
“The same goes for the coach and technical staff who receive very little praise when things go well but when times are tough they are heavily scrutinised. HEAVILY.”
Coles said no coach who would select players that are not up to the task.
Online Reporter