In recent times, players don’t appear to be fans of drop goals, unlike Naas Botha who was the undisputed MVP when it came to drop kicks. Picture: SA Rugby
Where is Naas Botha now? Springbok drop goal legend
In recent times, players don’t appear to be fans of drop goals, unlike Naas Botha who was the undisputed MVP when it came to drop kicks.
In recent times, players don’t appear to be fans of drop goals, unlike Naas Botha who was the undisputed MVP when it came to drop kicks. Picture: SA Rugby
In recent times, rugby players don’t appear to be fans of drop goals, unlike Naas Botha who was the undisputed MVP when it came to drop kicks.
The South African website takes a look at what has happened to the Northern Transvaal and Springbok legend.
TRIBUTE TO THE DROP GOAL GURU
Naas Botha was a consistent match-winner in his playing days
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It all started as a 19-year-old in 1977, playing against Western Province for Northern Transvaal when Botha was already the idol of the Loftus Versfeld crowd.
In 1987 he became Springbok captain against the All Blacks and was voted SA Player of the Year in 1979, 1981 and 1987.
Botha was known for his kicking off both his left and right feet, which earned him the nickname “Nasty Booter”.
But he is best remembered for his abilities as a drop-kicker, especially in high-pressure situations.
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Botha scored 312 points in 28 Tests, including 18 drop goals, playing alongside other backline legends of South African rugby including, among others, Danie Gerber and Carel du Plessis.
LIFE AFTER RUGBY
Since hanging up his boots, Botha was the head coach of India and coached the Tuks Varsity Cup team. He was also the team manager when the Junior Boks won the World Championship under head coach Jake White in 2002.
Naas Botha is currently a commentator and analyst for SuperSport.
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What is your favorite Naas Botha memory?
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