Mangweni has not hung up his boots, just yet

Mar 3 • General News • 5345 Views • Comments Off on Mangweni has not hung up his boots, just yet

Eastern Province Kings rugby stalwart, Siyabonga Tiger Mangweni, might be getting used to the whistle, but he hasn’t hung his boots up just yet.

EP Rugby CEO, Charl Crous, confirmed that Mangweni, who had announced his retirement from professional rugby in January to take up the defensive coaching position for the Vodacom Cup, would in fact be fulfilling a dual role in the first few games of the Vodacom Cup season.

“Tiger will still retain his coaching position, but will also be returning to the field to take up his familiar position at centre, with the aim of bringing a bit of stability to the back line,” he said.

Mangweni, who has begun full training with the squad since last week, said he was looking forward to getting back onto the field.

“I am looking forward to being able to play with the guys and feel that I will definitely be able to bring something to the game,” he said.

Mangweni said it was great to be able to discuss defensive strategies with the players and then to be involved first hand in the practical roll out on the field during practice.

“If anything, it has made the transition to coaching a lot easier,” he smiled.

Vodacom Cup Head Coach, Mzwandile Stick said he was looking forward to having Mangweni back on the field.

“There is no doubt that Tiger brings a lot of needed experience to the team, especially with the group of young players we have in the squad at the moment, and he will definitely add value on the field,” he said.

Stick said having Mangweni as part of the coaching structures meant that he would be able to contribute even more on the field.

“Tiger is familiar with our entire defensive structures and knows what we want to achieve, so he will be able to give direct instruction on the field during the game, which is really good for the team,” he said.

Photo supplied by Derrick Spies, EP Kings