Swys de Bruin insists there was nothing untoward about him leaving the Lions’ tour of Australasia early.
The Lions coach flew back to South Africa on the eve of the Lions’ match against the Chiefs in Hamilton, which they went on to win 23-17.
While the official word from the Lions camp was that it was for health reasons, SARugbymag.co.za had been told of an alleged fallout between De Bruin and Lions investor Altmann Allers.
However, the coach told IOL.co.za this was not the case.
‘I can guarantee you there has been no breakdown in the relationship between me and anyone in the team or at the union. There has been no interference, no one has prescribed to me what to do, and no pressure has been put on me,’ De Bruin said.
‘This is a personal matter and I am receiving professional help for it. It was our team doctor Rob Collin), after I’d first spoken to my wife and Lions CEO Rudolf Straeuli, who actually said it would be best for me to return home. It was in my and the team’s best interests.’
Straeuli added: ‘There is no reason for any panic, there’s nothing to be concerned about. Ivan van Rooyen will take charge of the team and he also has strong leaders around him who know the team set-up. Warren Whiteley is also back and we know what a good leader he is.’
Photo: Sydney Seshibedi/Gallo Images
