1. How do you think Clermont Auvergne are doing this year?
It has been a very closely contested year in the Top 14. We have been playing well, but certainly not up to our usual standards. Traditionally we are a team that plays very well in play-offs
2. Who was your rugby hero growing up?
Christian Cullen
3. Who is the best player you have played with?
There are just too many players to name one. I really enjoyed playing for the Barbarians in 2004 vs England, and was lucky enough to rub shoulders with Carlos Spencer, Wendel Sailor, Thomas Casteignede, Sebastien Chabal, to name a few.
4. Who is the best player you have played against?
Dan Carter
5. What has been the best league you have played in and why?
I loved the Super 14 when I was playing in SA because it was a fast and furious competition where you were playing against the best teams in the world week in and week out. We also got to go touring and were fortunate enough to visit great places. I feel also that the Top 14 competition here in France is the toughest in the world. It is played over 9-10 months of the year, and a team can't afford to lose a game at home, so the pressure is huge when you looking for that extra point, and it is a competition that is attracting top players from all over the world.
6. What tips would you give to youngsters who are playing rugby?
Enjoy each and every opportunity you get to play and to listen and learn from the more experienced players.
7. What has been the best stadium you have played in?
Newlands in Cape Town.
8. What would you like to do after you retire?
Get involved in coaching a rugby team. Would also like to get involved in a business.
9. What would you have been doing now if you hadn't become a rugby player?
I have always dreamt of becoming a footballer when growing up, so I guess it would be a footballer for Liverpool.
10. Do you wish to go play in South Africa one time?
If the opportunity presents itself than definitely.
11. What has been your career highlight?
Getting my first cap for the springboks and being part of the team that won the Tri Nations 2004
Other Questions
Favourite holiday destination? Gonubie, Eastern Cape, South Africa
Favourite food? Boerewors on the braai.
Favourite movies? Gladiator
Favourite band/artist? U2
Hero (who isn't in rugby)? Nelson Mandela
Favourite sport/team (which isn't in rugby)? Liverpool
What do you do in your spare time when not playing rugby? I am a family man now with a wife and a baby girl, so whatever spare time I get is basically taken up with spending it with them. I do enjoy getting out on my Harley Davidson for some fresh air.
What do you think of talkingrugbyunion.co.uk? Great website
Finally “ if you had a message to say to your fans who have been supporting Clermont week in week out, what would you say to all of them?
Thank you for your loyal support! It really does not go unnoticed by the players. Lets go and get this 2011 title.
This image sourced from the Telegraph
