A Dream Cut Short: Springbok Gaffie Du Toit Opens Up

In this fascinating and frank discussion Gaffie Du Toit opens up about his Springbok career. Gaffie burst on to the scene in 1998 as an exciting young flyhalf. He was supposed to be a Springbok star for the next decade at least. But life does not always work out that way.

He was publicly blamed for a 28-0 loss to New Zealand in Dunedin in 1999 and was dropped meaning he missed the World Cup. He would miss the 2003 tournament too before being recalled by Jake White in 2004. Gaffie helped the Springboks win the Tri-Nations that year having become more of a fullback by that stage.

Du Toit holds no grudges and in this candid conversation he talks openly about his career, the highs and lows, the might-have-beens. Do not miss out on this incredible chat with a man the fans fondly remember: Gaffie Du Toit!

00:00 Introduction by Peter
00:40 Debut against Ireland
02:28 Injured
03:41 Returning against Italy
05:08 Rugby World Cup aspirations
06:32 Winning easily
08:13 Losing to Wales for the first time
11:39 Losing 28-0 to the All Blacks
16:09 Nick Mallett
20:35 2004 Springbok comeback
24:54 Alternative career trajectory
28:53 Favourite position
30:44 Winning the 2004 Tri-Nations
32:57 Toughest opponent
34:50 Favourite current player
38:17 Funny moment
40:03 These days
42:35 Trivia question

Peter says: I love the Springboks and rugby is one of my favourite sports. Although as a sports journalist I am supposed to remain neutral, I always like to point out that before I became a professional, I was just a big fan! I hold a Masters Degree in International Journalism so at least you know I should be able to ask a good question or two! My dream is to do this YouTube Channel permanently. You can help me out by liking the videos, subscribing to the channel and hitting the notification bell.

►Business Enquiries: peter@frontrowrugby.co.za