All Black legend Sam Whitelock has pretty much seen it all in the game.
As a two-time Rugby World Cup winner and All Black appearance record holder (153), Whitelock has been at the heart of the world game since making his international debut back in 2010.
In the space of 12-month Whitelock has gone from making his final rugby appearance, playing for the Barbarians against Fiji at Allianz Stadium last June, to now part of the club’s coaching team for Saturday’s upcoming clash against the Springboks in South Africa.
When previewing the game from Cape Town, Whitelock stressed the importance the Barbarians have in the game.
“The Barbarians is a very special club,” he said.
“You have to be invited to play and to be a part of it. It brings together different nationalities and from different competitions and everyone comes together for the love of the game – it is one of the coolest things in sport.
“It has an important place in the rugby world, it needs to be a priority in the game. Its important for the players as well as the fans.
“The environment is great, you get to spend time with people on and off the field and propertly connect. We bring together all these players and that time together, getting to know them on a personal level is what helps everyone gel.
“It has been a really enjoyable couple of days so far
“I’m looking forward to see how the guys express themselves on Saturday. Everyone has connected really well and that important.
“For me as one of the coaches its about letting the players drive things for themselves, you are there to help feed information but this group are waiting to be told, they are experienced and taking the lead and that is what you want.
“Saturday is going to be a great occasion. The South African fans support rugby, they love the game and they will be looking forward to a proper contest and to enjoy the fixture.
Since retiring Whitelock has picked up the coaching reins and it is something he is thoroughly enjoying;
“I still travel with my mouthguard in the kit bag but know it needs to stay there!
“I’m really enjoying helping the next generation. I had some great support when I was a player and I want to try and pass that support and knowledge on. I would be upset with myself if I didn’t.
“It doesn’t mean my opinion is always right, players can have their own view, for me its just passing on that advice which is important.”
