Springbok legend tests positive for Covid-19 - Ruck

Springbok legend tests positive for Covid-19

South Africa rugby legend Danie Gerber has tested positive for Covid-19.

The World Rugby Hall of Fame star, who lives in Bluewater Bay, played 24 test matches for the Springboks between 1980 and 1992. 

In an interview at 10pm on Friday night, the 61-year-old was in high spirits stating that he only found out in the afternoon.

“I am shocked. I cannot believe it. I am just worried about my family now. They are now awaiting results.”

Gerber said he had been on about six different aircraft over the past two weeks including flights between Johannesburg, Pretoria and Cape Town.

“I have no clue where I could have gotten it. I have been playing golf in several places and travelling all over (SA). I have been on six aircraft and in contact with a lot of people.

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“Whoever I have been in contact with, please check for symptoms and get yourself tested,” he said.

Gerber said earlier this week his body had been sore and he had a fever.

“I was in pain and went to get it checked out. I then went to the drive-through test centre (in Port Elizabeth) on Thursday and they phoned me on Friday afternoon.

“I am shocked that I was positive.

“I am currently at home in a room that I cannot leave. It is starting to sink in and it is very scary.”


England vs South Africa – who makes RUCK’s all-time combined XV?

Fullback: Percy Montgomery (SA)

Test days appeared to be over when he joined Newport in 2002, but the move actually re-ignited his international career and he went on to be the top points scorer at the 2007 World Cup, excelling at 15 as the ‘Boks took the trophy.


Winger: Jason Robinson (ENG)

Known as Billy Whizz, this former rugby league star proved a hugely successful convert to Union. A lethal runner from full-back or wing, he was a nightmare to mark in one-on-one situations. Had a knack of scoring memorable tries on the big stage.


Centre: Will Greenwood (ENG)

A tall, stylish and astute centre who had a particular penchant for scoring tries against Wales. Two Lions tours, but his finest hour was lifting the World Cup with England in 2003.


Centre: Jean de Villiers (SA)

A hard-running centre who has also shown himself able to do all the pretty stuff. The king of the interception, he scored 27 Test tries and proved a fine leader of his country.


Winger: Bryan Habana (SA)

Anyone who races cheetahs in his spare time is likely to be reasonably rapid and the Jo’burg-born speedster has scorched his way to 64 Test tries – joint second with David Campese on the all-time list – including a record-equalling eight to help the ‘Boks win the 2007 World Cup. Further trophy triumphs followed with Toulon and he’s still a razor-sharp presence as he proved this autumn by drawing level with Jonah Lomu at the top of the pile with 15 career World Cup tries.

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