Corne Krige Interview
We caught up with Springboks legend Corne Krige who was a pleasure to talk to.
1. How do you think the South African teams have performed in the Super Rugby league?
In general they have done well, but the Lions have been a bit disappointing.
2. What are you up to now since you have retired?
I started an Outdoor advertising company called CK Outdoor. We specialise in billboards and buses in Cape Town.
3. How do you think the Springboks will get on at the Rugby World Cup?
I think we have a very good chance of becoming the first team ever to defend its title as World Champions. Having said that the form of some of the senior players does concern me, and of course the Coach!
4. You went to play in England for the Northampton Saints, did you enjoy this experience?
Yes I really enjoyed my time in England. As a South African player I spent a lot of time away from home and in Engeland we hardly ever spent more than one night away from home. My daughter was born in Northampton.
5. How different was Northern Hemisphere rugby to Southern Hemisphere rugby?
Very different as it is mostly played in bad weather. A strong tight five and a good tactical kicker at 10 wins you games.
6. Did playing in the northern Hemisphere improve you as a player?
I think so as I had to learn to play a lot tighter game.
7. How was the feeling being told you would be the Springboks captain?
It is obviously a massive honour and it was a very proud moment for me. With that goes a lot of pressure, responsibility and politics and I never enjoyed the outside influences.
8. Who is the toughest player you have played with/against?
I think the late Ruben Kruger was one of the toughest the world has ever seen.
9. What tips would you give to youngsters?
To be a professional rugby player you need total dedication to the sport, but you must also continue to educate yourself in other areas. In the big picture rugby will be a very short part of your life and you need to be ready to face reality after you have retired from this wonderful game.
10. How did you start playing rugby?
I went to boarding school from the age of 7 and my parents were 3500KM away in Zambia. I used rugby as a way of coping and making new friends.
11. What is the best stadium you have played in?
A fully packed Newlands Stadium in Cape Town is hard to beat.
12. What do you think of the current Springboks squad?
They are amazingly talented I just hope the right team gets picked.
13. What players in worldwide rugby impress you?
Richie Mc Caw because he is a great open side and a wonderful person. Martin Johnson and John Smit
Favourite holiday destination? Luangwa Valley in Zambia
Favourite food? Curry
Favourite movies? Got three kids I haven't been to the movies in years!!
Favourite band/artist? Parlotones, Third Day, U2, Cold Play
Hero (who isn't in rugby)? Nelson Mandela
Favourite sport/team (which isn't in rugby)? Football - Chelsea
What do you do in your spare time when not playing rugby? Mountain biking, surfing, gym, hunting and spending time with my family.
