Former Springbok centre Robbie Fleck believes the Stormers should take some lessons from United Rugby Championship counterparts Leinster.
Fleck shared his latest views on RugbyPass TV’s BOKS OFFICE.
He also discussed the value foreign international players add to the Leinster squad and the intellectual property that rubs off on their fellow players.
The former Stormers head coach unpacked the reasoning behind Leinster contracting foreign coaches and players and how it benefits the Irish powerhouse.
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“I love the Leinster way. The way they play and think about the game,” the former Springbok centre said.
“How important foreign players are to the whole franchise and how they add value to their youngsters.
“The pathway system of getting all the top schoolboy and university players in their system and grooming them.
“That combination with experienced international players and overseas-based players is a perfect fit.
“That’s why they’ve been so successful.
“They’ve got no problem bringing in foreign coaches either.
“They’ve always looked to getting foreign influence because they want to grow and develop.
“They don’t just want to do it their own way. They’re keen to learn and grow.
“So they will be successful for a long time.”
Fleck suggested that the Stormers should consider signing foreign international players as it might benefit the entire squad, as is the case with Leinster.
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“Surely the Stormers could copy the Leinster model,” Fleck said.
“Surely they can import some foreign internationals.
“They used to do it with Tony Brown and Chris Jack – they all added value [for younger players in the squad].
“Jean de Villiers who returned from Munster added huge value to the Stormers.
“It’s got to be the way forward if you’ve got the budget for it.”
