LUKE WATSON – THE EXPLOSIVE STORY

In his most brutally honest and revealing interview ever, Western Province captain and Springbok outcast Luke Watson reveals to Sports Illustrated the real reasons why Springbok coach Jake White refuses to pick him. Available on newsstands now (R26.95) Sports Illustrated packs an explosive punch with a September issue that delves deep into the great rivalry that is White vs. Watson.

White has publicly expressed his rugby reasons for Watson’s exclusion from the Springbok squad, while Watson believes that White’s exclusion stems from a deeper malice from his U21 rugby days and his father, Cheeky’s political background.

In an extract from the interview Watson says, “I have heard directly from people who have coached me that Jake believes I come with too much political baggage because of my father. That is not good in a team environment.”

“The type of political baggage I come with is normally held in very high regard, as my father was a liberation fighter. He is a man who fought for the democracy and equality in South Africa, and he realizes his dream today to a certain extent. “If Jake White doesn’t agree with that sort of legacy and background, then he’s against everything that equality and unity stand for. He’s basically saying that what my father did was the wrong thing.”

“Obviously I would love to play for the Springboks, but I do not want to find myself in the position where I’m compromising my beliefs in equality, integrity and honour to achieve that goal. I believe that Jake has lost the integrity, honour and pride that the Boks should be about,” says Watson.

Steve Smith, Editor of Sports Illustrated remarks, “It took a lot of courage for Luke Watson to go on record and finally reveal the background to his relationship with Jake White. Luke is a determined individual, a gifted leader, and a very talented rugby player – I hope that getting it all out in the open adds weight to the call for his inclusion in the Bok squad.”

Also in the issue, South Africa’s club rugby killing fields, tennis’ rivalry Federer vs. Nadal, whether Ernie can win another Major and exactly why they call the FIFA World Cup the “Beautiful Game.” The September issue is over flowing with sporting action, international sporting fixtures and gorgeous women, a must for all sporting fans!

So get to your nearest retail outlet and get the exclusive scoop on Luke Watson in the September issue of Sports Illustrated, on sale now.

For more information on Sports Illustrated, head to www.sportsillustrated.co.za