Features

Rugby Rugby's oracle, Paul Dobson, recalls some of the fondest memories of a legend, the late Ruben Kruger.

Like many others, the death of Ruben Kruger is a sad shock, even though he had been so ill for so long. Many people will have memories of this great man, and because I have the opportunity I should like to add to the memory pool.

The first time I heard of him was from the late Louis Babrow, a 1937 Springbok.

Babrow, an Old Gray, had watched the 1st XV playing at his old school in Bloemfontein and he came back to Cape Town impressed. "I've seen a future Springbok," Babrow said. He had seen Ruben Kruger playing for Grey.

It was my great privilege to be part of the 1996 Springbok management team that went to Argentina, France and Wales, winning all five Tests. Ruben was on that trip. Quiet and effective on the field and so he was off the field. Quiet, effective, unemotional, courteous. I was much older than the rest and often when I bent to pick up a suitcase a big hand would descend, saying: "Los dit, Oom." It would be Ruben or André Venter, the two strong men who suffered so much in later years.

France is not an easy place to tour and the Springboks battled manfully against them. In the first Test we were under immense pressure in Paris, leading 13-12 at Parc des Princes with France hot on attack and time running out.

Right at the end, France got the ball back to Christophe Lamaison and he, it seemed, had lots of room. He shaped to drop. Somehow, miraculously, straining every muscle in his powerful body, Ruben charged down the kick and the day was won for South Africa. He must have found it an exciting moment, though his expression just did not change. It never did.

The tour went on to Cardiff for the last match. Wives joined the players in the Marriott Hotel. I came down in the lift. Between the lift and reception there was a sort of lounge. I walked through it and as I passed I heard a voice, calling me. "Oom."

I looked back and there was Ruben standing up straight. He said: "Oom, ek wil graag vir oom voorstel aan my vrou."

It remains a treasured moment.

Many, many people must have their memories of this great, brave man.