January 30, 2013 at 5:54 p.m.

Rum levels the playing field


South Africa boss Mark Wood believes his side would be in with a great chance of defending the Rugby Classic — if it wasn’t for the dreaded Dark ‘n’ Stormies.

The week-long festival of rugby, which kicks off on Sunday, has always been as much about the social side as it has about the sporting competition.

And Wood, also a player for the Springboks, reckons the late nights and the drink will level the playing field.

His side may have a World Cup winner in Naka Drotsky and one of the sport's most respected players in Rassie Erasmus, but they're here to have fun, as well as to play rugby.

Wood added: “I think any player who has played professional or competitive sport always wants to win and we will push hard when we are on the field.

“But we do not come to Bermuda to win at all costs. I think its more about having fun and meeting old friends and rivals without the pressure of the professional game.

“I believe all the teams are competitive this year. And then there is the dreaded Dark ‘n’ Stormyies which we all believe levels the playing fields.

“Anybody can win.”

Jeff Lombard, manager of Team America, said: “Americans like winners, and so do sponsors. We owe a championship to our supporters and sponsors and will give it guts, feathers and all.

Aussie coach Gary Ella said winning was even more important for the Aussies after finishing runner-up last time.

“Australian Rugby has developed into a major world force and its success has been built on our competitive nature."[[In-content Ad]]

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