The Shanghai 7s are taking place on Saturday June 18 this year, and
as always the weekend’s proceedings kick off with a nice Long Lunch at Le Royal Meridien on Friday June 17 from noon until 4pm. Keynote
speakers this year will be three former Springboks - captain and number
eight Gary Teichmann, flanker and number eight Bob
Skinstad, and hooker John Allan, who represented both South Africa and
Scotland. We shot off some quickfire questions to Teichmann to get us in the mood...
Best player you ever played with?
Henry Honnibal. It is difficult to single out an individual, but he was one player that would never let the pressure get to him. He was consistent and one of the few flyhalves that stood his ground. He made life for his loose forwards very easy.
And toughest opponent?
Probably New Zealand number eight Zinzan Brooke, who was not only tough but very skillful in his position.
What was the most satisfying victory of your career?
Our 1998 win in Wellington vs New Zealand.
Teichmann (right) with Henry Honiball and Joost van der Westhuizen (left) celebrate victory over New Zealand in Wellington in 1998.
And the most painful defeat?
Losing to the British Lions test in Durban in 1997. We scored three trys to none but still lost the test as well as the series.
What was the best team you played in?
The 1998 springbok team that went on to win 17 test in a row. That same team had struggled with various changes in coaches over the
years, but became a team that believed in one another. Everyone shared the
same vision. It showed me how powerful that is in a team environment
And the toughest team you faced?
The 1996 All Blacks, who were still
hurting after losing the 1995 World Cup. They came over so focused and
determined to win one of the last three match test series that they would
play in.
Teichmann takes on the All Blacks
If you could play in any historical match, what would it be?
That 1995 World Cup Final. It was not just another game of
rugby. What that victory did to an entire nation was something very
special, and something that I don’t think can be repeated.
Who was the most outrageous player you ever toured with?
There are a couple, but the one that really stands out was Dick Muir. You were never safe when he was around, especially the team managers, who would often find smelly cheese or cutlery in their blazer pockets. He certainly made touring interesting.
Who do you currently rate as the best player in the world?
I think up until last year Dan Carter would be difficult to beat, never seems to have a bad game and when he is on song he can't put a foot wrong.
What do you think of the 7s game compared with the 15-a-side game?
The game of 7s has not only become a great spectator game, but helps the players appreciate space and the importance of having a strong set. A simple thing like having a strong accurate pass both sides is essential in the 7s game, and if that is transferred into the 15s game it can only improve the standard. The 7s players are extremely explosive which is also essential in the 15 man game. It can give you the edge.
Will you be having a run out while you are over here?
Nope, my boots were tossed out a long time ago!
Shanghai 7s Long Lunch. Le Royal Meridien, Fri Jun 17, Noon-4pm, RMB1,000 (individual), RMB9,000 (table of 10). Includes a top notch three-course meal and free-flow Heineken, wine and soft drinks.
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