Rugby

Pretorius Backs Bartholomeusz

Saturday 6th February 2010

Author: Riley Stuart

Photographer: Riley Stuart

Down but not out, a gutted Andre Pretorius has put on a brave face and confirmed what all Force fans have been dreading.

And while his playing career at the Australian club is over, another’s could be just beginning, after the 31-year-old endorsed fellow Force newcomer Mark Bartholomeusz to take his spot.

On Wednesday, only days before the club’s blockbuster Super 14 opener against the ACT, Pretorius tore the tendon from the bone in a freak hamstring injury at training.

The damage will require surgery, and is season ending.

In the wake of a 31 – 12 trial match victory over Queensland on Friday night, Pretorius has backed Bartholomeusz, who joined the Force from ACT at ahead of the 2010 season, to replace him at 10.

‘His knowledge of the game, and his knowledge of our strategy and game plan is so good.’ Pretorius said on Saturday morning.

‘The way he comes across in team meetings, he really can raise messages well.’

These sentiments were echoed by Mitch Hardy, General Manager of Rugby at the WA club.

‘Mark Bartholemeusz has prepared with the team all the way through preseason and through our trial period in that Number 10 position, and played very well last night.’ he said.

‘He’s our first and foremost choice at 10 now.’

Sam Harris and Stefano Hunt are also fly half options for the club.

While he won’t take the field for the Force in 2010, Pretorius is keen to make the most of a devastating situation.

‘I’ve been committed from the start to the Force, and I’d like to end it like that.’ he said.

‘I’ll probably get involved with some of the youngsters, maybe with the academy, and I’ll definitely be involved with strategy with the senior team.’

Since his move to WA some months ago, Pretorius has been public about his desire to find out why he’s in Perth, and why he felt the urge to finish his career with the Force.

‘It really didn’t feel like I was sacrificing a lot to get here, because it was going so well.’ the Springbok’s veteran said.

‘I’ve met some of the best friends since I’ve been here, the disappointing part is not getting to play rugby with them, working so hard in the preseason, and not getting to represent the Western Force in the Super 14.’

When quizzed about whether or not the Force would be looking overseas for a replacement fly half, Mitch Hardy refused to rule out any possible scenarios.

‘Obviously there’s some work to do in relation to whether or not we go elsewhere, and try and find another player.’ he said.

‘At this point in time, there’s nothing in Australia because everyone is committed to Australian franchises.’

‘But with the Japanese season finishing up in the next few weeks, and the Heineken Cup coming to a finish there may be opportunities to bring in another player should we choose to do so.’