Springbok fans have spoken out in support of Rassie Erasmus after several social media users accused him of “nepotism”. This comes after he invited 16 uncapped players to take part in the team's upcoming conditioning camp, one of whom happens to be Andre Hugo Venter, who happens to be dating his daughter Nikki. was.
Earlier this week, the national rugby team announced the names of 43 players who will take part in a two-day camp next month.
Rassie has since clarified that camping does not necessarily mean he will join the Springboks.
Lassies set record at Springbok camp
The list of 43 included faces old and new who will take part in the Springbok conditioning camp on March 5-6.
The group also includes 27 veteran players who have already made Test appearances. Meanwhile, 16 new uncapped players were also called to take part in the board session.
One of them is Stormers player Andre Hugo Venter, who is dating Rassie Erasmus' daughter Nikki. The 22-year-old is the son of former Springbok flanker Andre Hugo, who also played alongside Rassie during his professional career.
Reacting to this news, many rugby fans claimed that Andre Hugo's position in the adjustment camp was likely due to “nepotism”. Others questioned why some players were selected and others not.
Apparently responding to comments on social media, Lassie jumped on the X to clear up the confusion.
He tweeted: “Remember, conditioning camp doesn't mean they're the only players playing for the Springboks this year! Just like in the old days, every camp has a purpose.”
Also read: Lassi's reinforcements: meeting his wife and beautiful daughters [photos]
Support from the public
Meanwhile, Springbok supporters defended Lassie against the negative comments. They also supported his decision and the team's “vision”.
@willwee “Lassie, shut up the critics and those who scream nepotism!” he tweeted. We believe in you and know that you are completely unbiased. ”
Rugby journalist Jared Wright also defended Rassie's decision.
“I feel sorry for Andre Hugo Venter,” he said on Twitter, “because if he is called up to my national team, there will definitely be complaints of nepotism.
“But he's actually a great player and deserves a call-up.”