View source for Luke Watson

{{short description|South African rugby union player}}
{{about|the rugby player|other people}}
{{Distinguish|Luke Walton}}
{{Use dmy dates|date=January 2020}}
{{Infobox rugby biography
| name           = Luke Watson
| image          = 
| fullname       = Luke Asher Watson
| birth_date     = {{birth date and age|1983|10|26|df=y}}
| birth_place    = {{nowrap|[[Port Elizabeth, Eastern Cape|Port Elizabeth]], South Africa}}
| height         = {{height|m=1.84}}
| weight         = {{cvt|103|kg|lb stlb}}
| nickname       = 
| occupation     = 
| school         = [[Grey High School]]
| university     = 
| relatives      = [[Cheeky Watson]] (father)
| position       = [[Rugby union/flanker|Flanker]] <br /> [[Number eight (rugby union)|No 8]]
| currentclub    = 
| youthyears1    = 2002
| youthclubs1    = {{Rut|Mighty Elephants}}
| years1         = 2002, 2011–2015
| clubs1         = {{Rut|Mighty Elephants}} / <br /> {{Rut|Eastern Province Kings}}
| apps1          = 34
| points1        = 125
| years2         = 2003–2004
| clubs2         = {{Rut|Sharks}}
| apps2          = 20
| points2        = 5
| years3         = 2003–2004
| clubs3         = {{Rut|Sharks (Currie Cup)|CC=y}}
| apps3          = 19
| points3        = 10
| years4         = 2005–2009
| clubs4         = {{Rut|Stormers}}
| apps4          = 62
| points4        = 50
| years5         = 2005–2009
| clubs5         = {{Rut|Western Province}}
| apps5          = 48
| points5        = 130
| years6         = 2009–2011
| clubs6         = [[Bath Rugby]]
| apps6          = 41
| points6        = 25
| years7         = 2013
| clubs7         = {{Rut|Southern Kings}}
| apps7          = 6
| points7        = 10
| repyears1      = 2001
| repteam1       = S.A. Schools
| repcaps1       = 
| reppoints1     = 
| repyears2      = 2002
| repteam2       = South Africa Under-19
| repcaps2       = 
| reppoints2     = 
| repyears3      = 2002
| repteam3       = [[South Africa national rugby sevens team|South Africa 7s]]
| repcaps3       = 
| reppoints3     = 
| repyears4      = 2004
| repteam4       = South Africa Under-21
| repcaps4       = 2
| reppoints4     = 7
| repyears5      = 2007–2008
| repteam5       = [[South Africa national rugby union team|South Africa]]
| repcaps5       = 10
| reppoints5     = 0
| repyears6      = 2011
| repteam6       = [[Southern Kings|South African Kings]]
| repcaps6       = 2
| reppoints6     = 0
| clubupdate     = 6 September 2015
| repupdate      = 22 February 2013
| medals         = 
{{MedalSport | Men's [[rugby sevens]] }}
{{MedalCountry | {{RSA}} }}
{{MedalCompetition | [[Commonwealth Games]] }}
{{MedalBronze | [[2002 Commonwealth Games|2002 Manchester]] | [[Rugby sevens at the 2002 Commonwealth Games|Team competition]] }}
}}

'''Luke Asher Watson''' (born 26 October 1983 in [[Port Elizabeth, Eastern Cape|Port Elizabeth]]) is a South African former [[rugby union]] footballer who can play at flank or eighthman. He has represented and captained the South African Schools rugby team (2001), South Africa's under-19 (2002) and under-21 (2004) teams, as well as the Springbok [[Rugby sevens|Sevens]] team (2001). Watson has also captained both the [[Western Province (rugby team)|Western Province]] and the [[Super Rugby]] [[Stormers]]. He most recently played for the {{Rut|Eastern Province Kings}}.

Watson has been controversial due to his relationship with then-national coach [[Jake White]], political interference in his selection for the 2007 Springbok team, interaction with the squad afterwards, and his comments in a speech. Watson told a public gathering on 3 October 2008 that he had to stop himself from vomiting when he wore the Springbok jersey, and referred to black players such as [[Zola Yeye]] who during apartheid had been excluded from national selection.<ref name="Transcript">{{cite news | url = http://www.sport24.co.za/Rugby/Transcript-of-Watson-tape-20081014 | title = Transcript of Watson Tape. | publisher = sport24.co.za | date = 14 October 2008 | access-date = 5 May 2011}}</ref> The media suggested that Watson had also denigrated [[Afrikaner]] players and rugby officials in a question and answer session, although the transcript of the speech does not bear this out.<ref name="Life ban urged for controversial Luke Watson">{{cite web | url = http://nz.sports.yahoo.com/rugby/news/article/-/5077703/life-ban-urged-controversial-luke-watson | title = Life ban urged for controversial Luke Watson | publisher = Yahoo!Xtra Sport | date = 14 October 2008 | access-date = 12 May 2011 | last = Reid | first = Neil}}</ref>

Consequently, some South African rugby supporters and players (mostly Afrikaners) launched verbal attacks against Watson (often vehement and personal),<ref name="Luke Watson: against the tide">{{cite news | url = http://www.timesonline.co.uk/tol/sport/rugby_union/article6968407.ece | title = Luke Watson: against the tide | work = Times Online (London) | date = 27 December 2009 | access-date = 12 May 2011 | last = Walsh | first = David}}{{dead link|date=September 2024|bot=medic}}{{cbignore|bot=medic}}</ref><ref name="Luke, selfs die WP verdien jou nie">{{cite news | url = http://www.beeld.com/MyBeeld/JouStorie/Luke-selfs-die-WP-verdien-jou-nie-20101007 | title = Luke, selfs die WP verdien jou nie | work = Beeld (Pretoria) | date = 7 October 2010 | access-date = 12 May 2011 | last = Grobler | first = Nic | language = af}}</ref> Afrikaner rights groups like the [[Afrikanerbond]]<ref name="Life ban urged for controversial Luke Watson" /> sought his exclusion from rugby, and some spectators vocally expressed their disapproval whenever he played in South Africa.<ref name="Newlands faithful boo Watson">{{cite news | url = http://www.iol.co.za/sport/newlands-faithful-boo-watson-1.597676?ot=inmsa.ArticlePrintPageLayout.ot | title = Newlands faithful boo Watson | work = Independent Online (Cape Town & Johannesburg) | date = 26 January 2009 | access-date = 12 May 2011 | last = Mohamed | first = Ashfak}}</ref><ref name="Judge Luke on his rugby – De Villiers">{{cite news | url = http://www.iol.co.za/sport/judge-luke-on-his-rugby-de-villiers-1.599437 | title = Judge Luke on his rugby – De Villiers | work = Independent Online (Cape Town & Johannesburg) | date = 9 March 2009 | access-date = 12 May 2011 | last = Mohamed | first = Ashfak}}</ref>

Watson has denied that he is against Afrikaners, pointing out that not only does he oppose all forms of discrimination but that he also has Afrikaner ancestors.<ref name="I don't hate Afrikaners, say angry Watson">{{cite news | url = http://www.iol.co.za/sport/i-don-t-hate-afrikaners-say-angry-watson-1.451340 | title = I don't hate Afrikaners, say angry Watson | date = 13 October 2008 | access-date = 6 May 2011 | newspaper = Independent Online (Cape Town & Johannesburg)}}</ref> He conceded in 2010 that he had been used as "a political pawn" and that he would have done things differently if he had the chance to do them over.<ref name="I was a political pawn">{{cite web | url = http://www.keo.co.za/2010/10/26/%E2%80%98i-was-a-political-pawn | title = I was a political pawn | publisher = keo.co.za | date = 26 October 2010 | access-date = 12 May 2011 | last = Borchardt | first = Simon | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20101028185640/http://www.keo.co.za/2010/10/26/%E2%80%98i-was-a-political-pawn/ | archive-date = 28 October 2010 | url-status = dead }}</ref> He regretted attending the Springbok training camp in 2007, knowing that neither he, the squad, nor White wanted him to be there.<ref name="I was a political pawn" /><ref name="Luke apologises – 'I was wrong'">{{cite news | url = http://www.sport24.co.za/Rugby/Luke-apologises-I-was-wrong-20101006 | title = Luke apologises – 'I was wrong' | work = sport24.co.za | date = 6 October 2010 | access-date = 12 May 2011 | last = De Bruin | first = Philip}}</ref><ref name="Next Chapter: the Luke Watson Interview">{{cite web | url = https://rugbyheelsandeverythingelse.wordpress.com/2011/01/10/next-chapter-the-luke-watson-interview | title = Next Chapter: the Luke Watson Interview | work = rugbyheelsandeverythingelse | access-date = 12 May 2011 | last = Boomgaard | first = Sarah| date = 10 January 2011 }}</ref>

==Youth==
Luke Watson is the son of anti-apartheid activist [[Cheeky Watson|Daniel "Cheeky" Watson]], who was also a rugby player of national standard in his youth. Watson comes from a family traditionally strongly committed to Christianity. His grandfather, Daniel John Watson, was a Pentecostal lay preacher and transmitted Christian values to Luke's father while Cheeky was growing up in Grahamstown.<ref name="The Mirror at Midnight: a South African Journey">{{cite book | title = The Mirror at Midnight: a South African Journey | publisher = Mariner Books (New York) | author = Hochschild, Adam | year = 2007 | pages = 40}}</ref> Luke Watson has openly admitted to being a committed Christian who wanted to become a minister at the age of 17, and who believes that doing God's work is to help those on the margins. He sports four religious tattoos on his body, including a cross on his right biceps and the reference "Habakkuk 3:17" on his left arm.<ref name="The Gospel according to Luke" /><ref name="Luke Watson bares his soul in Wednesday's Chronicle">{{cite news | url = http://www.thisisbath.co.uk/sport/Luke-Watson-bares-soul-Wednesday-s-Chronicle | title = Luke Watson bares his soul in Wednesday's Chronicle | work = This is Bath | date = 22 December 2009 | access-date = 12 May 2011 | last = Bradshaw | first = Tom}}</ref> While living in Cape Town he fed homeless persons three times a week and let them shower at his home.<ref name="What would Luke call his autobiography?">{{cite news | url = http://www.iol.co.za/sport/what-would-luke-call-his-autobiography-1.451348 | title = What would Luke call his autobiography? | work = Independent Online (Cape Town & Johannesburg) | date = 12 November 2008 | access-date = 12 May 2011 | last = Quintal | first = Angela}}</ref><ref name="Hopkins" /> Watson says that he prays continuously while on the field, asking God " 'where the gaps are, where the weaknesses are in defence and help me be in the right place' ". Yet he does not believe in being judgmental, and describes himself as " 'very tentative to preach too quickly' ".<ref name="The Gospel according to Luke">{{cite news | url = https://www.facebook.com/topic.php?uid=22914234881&topic=11848 | title = The Gospel according to Luke | work = The Bath Chronicle (Bath) | date = 23 December 2009 | access-date = 12 May 2011 | last = Bradshaw | first = Tom}}</ref>

===School years===
While attending Grey Junior School in Port Elizabeth Luke realized, at the age of 7, that because they associated with blacks and had supported the anti-apartheid struggle, his family was different from other white South Africans. His father had joined the African National Congress in 1978 and had helped to hide cadres from the secret police, who burnt down his home in 1986 as well as his business.<ref name="The struggle continues for Watson sons">{{cite news | url = http://www.iol.co.za/sport/the-struggle-continues-for-watson-sons-1.572847?ot=inmsa.ArticlePrintPageLayout.ot | title = The struggle continues for Watson sons | date = 19 May 2007 | access-date = 10 May 2011 | last = Forde | first = Fiona | newspaper = Independent Online (Cape Town & Johannesburg)}}</ref><ref name="Secret">{{cite news | url = https://www.theguardian.com/world/2008/jan/13/rugbyunion.southafrica | title = Revealed: secret plan to storm SA's last bastion of white power. | publisher = Guardian News and Media | work = The Guardian (London) | date = 13 January 2008 | access-date = 12 May 2011 | last = Malone | first = Andrew}}</ref><ref name="Greenway">{{cite news | url = http://www.nzherald.co.nz/sport/news/article.cfm?c_id=4&objectid=10399323 | title = It's personal, not business, as White spurns Watson. | work = The New Zealand Herald (Auckland) | date = 7 May 2011 | access-date = 12 May 2011 | last = Greenaway | first = Mike}}</ref>
Luke Watson was ostracized by other students and someone wrote "Kill the Watsons" on his desk. When his father was imprisoned his mother, Tracey, hid this from him. He learnt about racism and apartheid from his father, and wanted to represent the change that his father had worked for.<ref name="Luke Watson: against the tide" />

Watson played rugby at Grey High School where he was coached from Grade 10 onwards by Mike Howe. Howe first switched Watson from eighthman to openside flank. Later Howe favourably remembered Watson's ball-fetching skills from rucks and his motivational abilities, but said that at the time his organisational skills "let him down".<ref name="VDBerg">{{cite news | url = http://www.timeslive.co.za/sundaytimes/article86707.ece | title = The gospel according to Luke. | work = Times Live (Johannesburg) | date = 20 May 2007 | access-date = 12 May 2011 | last = Van der Berg | first = Clinton}}</ref>

In Grade 12 Watson captained Grey High's First XV. He organized a strike of the team after objections were raised that he had abused his position as captain.<ref name=Greenway /> During his final year of high school Watson told his principal, Roy Simpson, that he was resigning as prefect. Some claim that Watson's resignation was due to his loyalty to "the wrong crowd", while his father maintained it was because the younger Watson had objected to "autocratic leadership" at the school. Despite his actions, Watson was given the Headmaster's Leadership award that year.<ref name=VDBerg />

With his cousin, Daniel, Luke Watson represented the Eastern Province XV at the 2000 [[Craven Week]]. Aged 16, he scored a try in their 21-all draw against Griqualand-West,<ref>{{cite news | url = http://152.111.1.88/argief/berigte/beeld/2000/07/12/5/8.html | title = Craven-week wys rugbybal val nie ver van boom af . | work = Beeld (Johannesburg) | date = 12 July 2000 | access-date = 20 May 2011 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20110720180653/http://152.111.1.88/argief/berigte/beeld/2000/07/12/5/8.html | archive-date = 20 July 2011 | url-status = dead }}</ref><ref>{{cite news | title = Uitslae Wereldwyd: Cravenweek (Worldwide Results: Craven Week). | date = 13 July 2000 | url = http://152.111.1.88/argief/berigte/beeld/2000/07/13/4/28.html | work = Beeld (Johannesburg) | access-date = 20 May 2011 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20110720180608/http://152.111.1.88/argief/berigte/beeld/2000/07/13/4/28.html | archive-date = 20 July 2011 | url-status = dead }}</ref> and was in the Eastern Province schools team that played in a curtain raiser for the test between South Africa and Canada on 10 June.<ref>{{cite web | url = http://www.danretief.com/?p=232 | title = The ultimate captain. | access-date = 30 May 2011 | last = Retief | first = Dan | date = 18 August 2010 | work = DanRetief.com}}</ref> In July 2001 he was back at the Craven Week where he impressed in Eastern Province's 15–17 loss against a Blue Bulls side.<ref>{{cite news | first = Morris | last = Gilbert | title = Pumas sewende keer bo – Sprankelrugby op die tweede dag van die Cravenweek (Pumas on top for seventh time – sparkling rugby on the second day of the Craven Week). | date = 11 July 2001 | url = http://152.111.1.88/argief/berigte/beeld/2001/07/11/16/4.html | work = Beeld (Johannesburg) | access-date = 21 May 2011 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20110720180750/http://152.111.1.88/argief/berigte/beeld/2001/07/11/16/4.html | archive-date = 20 July 2011 | url-status = dead }}</ref>

===National selection===
Watson was selected for the South African Academy<ref name=Academy>Until about 2008 Academy sides were selected from provincial academy teams that participated in the annual Craven Week rugby festival for under-18 players. Provinces first sent Academy teams to four regional Academy Weeks, where four Academy sides were chosen to attend Craven Week. As part of the then-South African Rugby Football Union's development programme, academy teams contained quotas of players of colour. For example, by 1999 a minimum of 13 players of colour had to be included in each 22-person side. Essentially representing a South African Schools B-side, SA Academy teams also beat SA Schools sides in 2004, 2005 and 2008.</ref> side in 2000 that beat the South African Schools side that year.<ref>{{cite web | url = http://www.rugbyrugby.com/news/story_23808160400.php | title = Academy teaches Schools a lesson. | access-date = 17 May 2011 | date = 23 August 2008 | work = RugbyRugby.com | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20120320005937/http://www.rugbyrugby.com/news/story_23808160400.php | archive-date = 20 March 2012 | url-status = dead }}</ref><ref>{{cite news | first = Theo | last = Garrun | title = Boland, WP show way forward at Craven Week. | date = 16 July 2000 | url = http://www.iol.co.za/sport/boland-wp-show-way-forward-at-craven-week-1.342648 | work = Independent Online (Cape Town & Johannesburg) | access-date = 17 May 2011}}</ref><ref>{{cite news | first = J J | last = Harmse | title = Keurders verras met Ntunja as SA kaptein (Selectors surprise with Ntunja as captain). | date = 17 July 2000 | url = http://152.111.1.88/argief/berigte/beeld/2000/07/17/2/13.html | work = Beeld (Johannesburg) | access-date = 20 May 2011 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20110720180715/http://152.111.1.88/argief/berigte/beeld/2000/07/17/2/13.html | archive-date = 20 July 2011 | url-status = dead }}</ref> He was invited to a training camp in March 2001 but was not selected for the national under-19 team that participated in the Junior World Championship in [[Santiago]], Chile.<ref>{{cite news | title = Sportnuus van oral: SA o.19-oefengroep (Sports news from everywhere: SA u-19 training squad).. | date = 8 March 2001 | url = http://152.111.1.88/argief/berigte/beeld/2001/03/08/18/4.html | work = Beeld (Johannesburg) | access-date = 21 May 2011 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20110720180731/http://152.111.1.88/argief/berigte/beeld/2001/03/08/18/4.html | archive-date = 20 July 2011 | url-status = dead }}</ref>

In 2001 Watson was chosen as captain of the South African Schools team that played the French under-18 team twice. The SA Schools side, which included [[Bismarck du Plessis]] and [[Derick Hougaard]] won the first match in Cape Town 36–15. In the second clash at [[Loftus Versfeld]], which was drawn 23–23, Watson "played well" and scored a try.<ref>{{cite news | first = Morris | last = Gilbert | title = Room van skolerugby voor 'leë' paviljoene (Cream of schools' rugby in front of 'empty' stands). | date = 28 July 2001 | url = http://152.111.1.88/argief/berigte/beeld/2001/07/28/3/5.html | work = Beeld (Johannesburg) | access-date = 21 May 2011 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20110720180817/http://152.111.1.88/argief/berigte/beeld/2001/07/28/3/5.html | archive-date = 20 July 2011 | url-status = dead }}</ref><ref>{{cite news | title = Craven Week kicks off with 20 top teams. | date = 6 July 2001 | url = http://www.iol.co.za/sport/rugby/craven-week-kicks-off-with-20-top-teams-1.499314 | work = Independent Online (Cape Town & Johannesburg) | access-date = 17 May 2011}}</ref><ref>{{cite news | title = SA schools draw in Loftus curtain-raiser. | date = 28 July 2001 | url = http://www.iol.co.za/sport/rugby/sa-schools-draw-in-loftus-curtain-raiser-1.499903 | work = Independent Online (Cape Town & Johannesburg) | access-date = 17 May 2011}}</ref> In October 2001 he was one of five nominees for the Craven Week Player of the Tournament, which was awarded to Derick Hougaard.<ref name="SARU Player Profile Derick Hougaard">{{SA Rugby Player Profile | id=22727 | name=Derick Hougaard | date=30 May 2016}}</ref><ref>{{cite news | first = Petros | last = Augousti | title = Matfield stars in SA rugby award nominations. | date = 24 October 2001 | url = http://www.iol.co.za/sport/matfield-stars-in-sa-rugby-award-nominations-1.502964 | work = Independent Online (Cape Town & Johannesburg) | access-date = 20 May 2011}}</ref>

In 2002 Watson was chosen to captain South Africa's under-19 team at the [[IRB Junior World Championship]] in [[Italy]]. The team had three weeks to prepare and beat Chili (48–3) in their first game and England (17–8) on their way to a semifinal in [[Milan]] which they lost 41–9 to New Zealand, the eventual champions. The IRB commended Watson for representing the spirit of the competition in being well-spoken and without pretense. Watson told a reporter that it was an honour to be part of Springbok history. He added, "for my Dad, Cheeky Watson, it is a dream come true. He is very proud that his son plays for a unified South African team".<ref>{{cite news | title = Watson versinnebeeld gees van dié toernooi (Watson represents spirit of this tournament). | date = 27 March 2002 | url = http://152.111.1.88/argief/berigte/beeld/2002/03/27/21/6.html | work = Beeld (Johannesburg) | access-date = 20 May 2011 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20110720180512/http://152.111.1.88/argief/berigte/beeld/2002/03/27/21/6.html | archive-date = 20 July 2011 | url-status = dead }}</ref><ref>{{cite web | url = http://www.irishrugby.ie/news/12558.php | title = FIRA U19 World Cup – New Zealand Streets Ahead. | access-date = 20 May 2011 | date = 2 April 2002 | publisher = IrishRugby.ie}}</ref>

Watson was selected for the South African Sevens team that played at the 2002 [[Commonwealth Games]], replacing [[Marius Schoeman]]<ref name="SARU Player Profile Marius Schoeman">{{SA Rugby Player Profile | id=20609 | name=Marius Schoeman | date=30 May 2016}}</ref> who withdrew due to a broken arm.<ref>{{cite news | title = Injury-enforced changes for South Africa. | date = 16 July 2002 | url = http://www.rugby365.com/tournaments/irb/564879.htm | work = Rugby365.com | access-date = 18 May 2011}}</ref> Coached by [[Chester Williams]] and managed by [[Rob Louw]],<ref name="SARU Player Profile Rob Louw">{{SA Rugby Player Profile | id=20664 | name=Rob Louw | date=30 May 2016}}</ref> the team placed third.<ref>{{cite web | url = http://www.irbsevens.com/regionalsports/newsid=2039885.html | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20110927045147/http://www.irbsevens.com/regionalsports/newsid=2039885.html | url-status = usurped | archive-date = 27 September 2011 | title = Brown to lead Bok Seven at Commonwealth Games. | publisher = irbsevens.com | date = 25 August 2010 | access-date = 8 May 2011}}</ref>
<ref name=Grey>{{cite web | url = http://www.greyhighschool.com/index.php/Sports/National-Representatives | title = National Reps: S A Schools. | publisher = Grey High School | date = 6 May 2011 | access-date = 6 May 2011 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20110620204321/http://www.greyhighschool.com/index.php/Sports/National-Representatives/ | archive-date = 20 June 2011 | url-status = dead }}</ref><ref name="SA Rugby Squad – South Africa : 2002 Commonwealth Games Sevens">{{SA Rugby Squad | teamid=4011 | team=South Africa | compid=288 | comp=2002 Commonwealth Games Sevens | accessdate=8 June 2016}}</ref> Watson and teammate [[Jean de Villiers]] impressed former England international [[Matt Dawson]] as potential future Springboks for the 15-aside format.<ref>{{cite news | first = Matt | last = Dawson | title = Sevens to savour. | date = 5 August 2002 | url = http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport3/commonwealthgames2002/hi/rugby_7s/newsid_2172000/2172738.stm | work = BBC (London) | access-date = 12 May 2011}}</ref>

Despite speculation that he would be selected for the Springbok squad in 2003, national
coach [[Rudolf Straeuli]] overlooked Watson for tests against Scotland and Australia.<ref name=Russell /><ref>{{cite news | url = http://www.iol.co.za/sport/lane-rejects-would-have-given-boks-good-test-1.528675 | title = Lane: Rejects would have given Boks good test. | work = Independent Online (Cape Town & Johannesburg) | date = 12 September 2003 | access-date = 18 May 2011 }}</ref> The national selectors did include him in the South African A-team that faced Argentina A at [[Wellington, Western Cape|Wellington]] on 25 June.<ref>{{cite news | first = Liam | last = Del Carme | title = Bok door opens for Fleck, Barry. | date = 17 June 2003 | url = http://www.iol.co.za/sport/bok-door-opens-for-fleck-barry-1.526352 | work = Independent Online (Cape Town & Johannesburg) | access-date = 19 May 2011}}</ref>

Watson was selected in 2004 to represent South Africa in the [[International Rugby Board|IRB]]'s [[Under 21 Rugby World Championship]] in a team that included [[Andries Bekker]], [[Bryan Habana]] and [[Wynand Olivier]].<ref name="SA Rugby Squad – South Africa : 2004 IRB U21 World Championships">{{SA Rugby Squad | teamid=4918 | team=South Africa | compid=360 | comp=2004 IRB U21 World Championships | accessdate=8 June 2016}}</ref> Coached by [[Peter de Villiers]], the team beat Australia 44–10 to finish third.<ref>{{cite web | url = http://www.irb.com/mm/document/newsmedia/0/acr13a_531.pdf | title = IRB Under 21 World Championship 2004: Statistical Review and Match Analysis. | access-date = 16 May 2011 | date = 1 August 2004 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20110916040918/http://www.irb.com/mm/document/newsmedia/0/acr13a_531.pdf | archive-date = 16 September 2011 | url-status = dead }}</ref>

Watson later credited former Springbok and national coach [[Michael du Plessis]] as the person (apart from his father) who had the greatest influence on his playing abilities early on.<ref name=Plakkaat /> His parents asked Du Plessis to help develop a teenage Watson in Port Elizabeth. A reporter claimed that "within two seconds" Du Plessis taught young Watson "more about running lines than other coaches could do in two years".<ref>{{cite news | first = Lennie | last = Roos | title = Wie is beste afrigter ? | trans-title = Who is best coach? | date = 16 January 2004 | url = http://152.111.1.88/argief/berigte/beeld/2004/01/16/SN/24/01.html | work = Beeld (Johannesburg) | access-date = 30 May 2011 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20110810142946/http://152.111.1.88/argief/berigte/beeld/2004/01/16/SN/24/01.html | archive-date = 10 August 2011 | url-status = dead }}</ref><ref name=Age>{{cite news | title = Watson has come of age. | date = 24 April 2004 | url = http://www.timeslive.co.za/thetimes/article14383.ece | work = Times Live (Johannesburg) | access-date = 30 May 2011}}</ref>

==Early senior career==

===Eastern Province Elephants, 2002===
In 2002 Watson was included in the Eastern Province under-21 team before progressing to the senior squad.

During round one of the Currie Cup<ref>At the time the Currie Cup was divided into two sections in which teams played two rounds. The top four teams in each section after a first round of six matches progressed to the Top Eight, which competed for the Currie Cup in 7 games. The bottom three teams after round one then played 5 matches for the Bankfin Cup.</ref> Watson was included in the Elephants' first match against the [[Pumas (Currie Cup)|Pumas]] on 20 July after impressing coach [[Allister Coetzee]]<ref name="SARU Player Profile Allister Coetzee">{{SA Rugby Player Profile | id=19801 | name=Allister Coetzee | date=30 May 2016}}</ref> with his speed and work rate in the warm-up game against [[Boland Cavaliers|Boland]].<ref name=Jeug>{{cite news | first = Burton | last = Fourie | title = Jeug, ervaring in OP se span teen Pumas (Youth, experience in EP's team against Pumas). | date = 17 July 2001 | url = http://152.111.1.88/argief/berigte/beeld/2002/07/17/18/5.html | work = Beeld (Johannesburg) | access-date = 21 May 2011 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20110720180838/http://152.111.1.88/argief/berigte/beeld/2002/07/17/18/5.html | archive-date = 20 July 2011 | url-status = dead }}</ref> Watson played alongside experienced players like [[Paul Treu]],<ref name="SARU Player Profile Paul Treu">{{SA Rugby Player Profile | id=18266 | name=Paul Treu | date=30 May 2016}}</ref> who had already represented the [[Emerging Springboks]], and Barry Pinnock, who had played more than 150 times for Eastern Province.<ref name=Jeug /> Despite having won seven consecutive games prior to the 2002 season, the Elephants lost all but one of their 6 first-round games.<ref name="Bankfin Currie Cup Log 2002">{{cite web | url = http://www.sarugby.co.za/content.aspx?contentid=20820 | title = Bankfin Currie Cup Log 2002 | work = South African Rugby Union | access-date = 31 May 2016 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20160531102848/http://www.sarugby.co.za/content.aspx?contentid=20820&fullview=true | archive-date = 31 May 2016 | url-status = live}}</ref> In one of these, against the [[SWD Eagles]] on 24 August, Watson was "involved in too many incidents off the ball to be of much value to his team".<ref>{{cite news | title = Eagles hold off late Elephant charge. | date = 24 August 2002 | url = http://www.iol.co.za/sport/eagles-hold-off-late-elephant-charge-1.516437 | work = Independent Online (Cape Town & Johannesburg) | access-date = 18 May 2011}}</ref> He scored his "first try at senior level" in the match against the [[Leopards (rugby team)|Leopards]] on 7 September.<ref>{{cite news | title = Last-gasp try robs Elephants of first win. | date = 7 September 2002 | url = http://www.iol.co.za/sport/last-gasp-try-robs-elephants-of-first-win-1.517366 | work = Independent Online (Cape Town & Johannesburg) | access-date = 18 May 2011}}</ref> Watson was included in the team that pulled off an unlikely round one victory against unbeaten log leaders the [[Bulls (rugby)|Bulls]] on 14 September.<ref>{{cite news | title = EP come from behind to beat Boland. | date = 28 September 2002 | url = http://www.iol.co.za/sport/rugby/ep-come-from-behind-to-beat-boland-1.517894 | work = Independent Online (Cape Town & Johannesburg) | access-date = 18 May 2011}}</ref>

The Elephants fared better in the second round of the [[Bankfin Cup]], the bottom division of the [[Currie Cup]], with Watson scoring a try in their come-from-behind 41–35 win against Boland. But he had to withdraw from the semi-final after sustaining a serious lower back injury against the [[Griffons (rugby team)|Griffons]] on 5 October.<ref name=Lose_Watson>{{cite news | title = EP lose Watson ahead of Cup semifinal. | date = 2 October 2002 | url = http://www.iol.co.za/sport/rugby/ep-lose-watson-ahead-of-cup-semifinal-1.518630 | work = Independent Online (Cape Town & Johannesburg) | access-date = 17 May 2011}}</ref> The Elephants lost the semifinal against [[Border Bulldogs|Border]], so finishing in third place with 3 wins of 5 games played.<ref name="Bankfin Currie Cup Log 2002" />

By the end of the 2002 season Watson was called "promising" and "one of the most exciting young ball fetchers in the country",<ref name=Lose_Watson /> and by November he was being actively sought by the Durban-based [[Sharks (rugby union)|Sharks]]. Watson revealed that while he would have preferred to stay with Eastern Province, they had offered him a small contract which had not yet been confirmed. He felt that Eastern Province's reluctance was due to his father having stood against and narrowly lost to George Davids for election as president of the Eastern Province Rugby Football Union.<ref>{{cite news | first = Jannie | last = De Wet | title = OP se Luke Watson soek sy heil in Natal (Watson seeks welfare in Natal). | date = 11 November 2002 | url = http://152.111.1.88/argief/berigte/beeld/2002/11/11/2/18.html | work = Beeld | access-date = 20 May 2011 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20110720180405/http://152.111.1.88/argief/berigte/beeld/2002/11/11/2/18.html | archive-date = 20 July 2011 | url-status = dead }}</ref>

===Sharks, 2003–04===
Watson relocated to [[Durban]] in 2003 where he represented the Sharks in the Currie Cup and the {{Rut|Sharks}} in the Super 12 competitions.<ref name="SARU Player Profile Luke Watson">{{SA Rugby Player Profile | id=21697 | name=Luke Watson | date=30 May 2016}}</ref> By June 2003<ref>{{cite news | first = Herbert | last = Pretorius | title = Watson wíl Wêreldbeker toe [Watson wants to go to World Cup]. | date = 19 June 2003 | url = http://152.111.1.88/argief/berigte/beeld/2003/06/19/20/3.html | work = Beeld (Johannesburg) | access-date = 28 May 2011 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20110810142853/http://152.111.1.88/argief/berigte/beeld/2003/06/19/20/3.html | archive-date = 10 August 2011 | url-status = dead }}</ref> he had signed up with rugby agent Jason Smith's World Artists, who represented South African players such as [[Victor Matfield]] and [[Clyde Rathbone]] locally and abroad.<ref>{{cite news | first = Stephen | last = Nell | title = 'Top players will quit if Straeuli stays'. | date = 3 December 2003 | url = http://www.iol.co.za/sport/top-players-will-quit-if-straeuli-stays-1.531077 | work = Independent Online (Cape Town & Johannesburg) | access-date = 18 May 2011}}</ref><ref>Watson seems to have had a contract with rugby agent Craig Livingstone at some time. Cheeky Watson reportedly said in 2007 that the termination of Luke's contract with Livingstone had been handled by Bierbuyck, but did not say when this happened.</ref> Sharks Coach [[Kevin Putt]] included Watson in the team that won 32–19 against a weakened [[Harlequin F.C.|Harlequins]] at the [[The Stoop|Stoop]] in London on 2 February.<ref>{{cite news | first = David | last = Llewellyn | title = Sharks too fierce for brave Harlequins. | date = 5 February 2003 | url = https://www.independent.co.uk/sport/rugby/rugby-union/sharks-too-fierce-for-brave-harlequins-596701.html | work = The Independent (London) | access-date = 18 May 2011}}</ref>

At the start of the Super 12 season Watson was hailed by Sharks fitness coach Kevin Stevenson as the fittest among the Shark forwards while also able to bench-press "1.6 times his body weight" and complete 29 pull-ups.<ref>{{cite news | first = Mike | last = Greenaway | title = Sharks get thumbs-up from tough fitness guru. | date = 4 February 2003 | url = http://www.iol.co.za/sport/rugby/sharks-get-thumbs-up-from-tough-fitness-guru-1.522333 | work = Independent Online (Cape Town & Johannesburg) | access-date = 18 May 2011}}</ref> He made the squad for what would have been his Super 12 debut on 21 February against a Stormers side that included "two of the best fetchers in South Africa, [[Corné Krige]] en Hendrik Gerber".<ref>{{cite news | title = Watson vanaand geweeg Jong Sharks-flank pak SA rugby se hardebaarde (Watson measured tonight – Young Sharks flank faces SA's hard men). | date = 21 February 2003 | url = http://152.111.1.88/argief/berigte/beeld/2003/02/21/24/3.html | work = Beeld (Johannesburg) | access-date = 21 May 2011 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20110720180843/http://152.111.1.88/argief/berigte/beeld/2003/02/21/24/3.html | archive-date = 20 July 2011 | url-status = dead }}</ref> But Watson did not play in the game, as his inclusion had been part of Putt's failed ruse to mislead his opponents. Watson made his actual Super 12 debut came against the [[Brumbies]], at 19 the youngest player in the Super 12 that year. His direct opponent was flank [[George Smith (rugby union)|George Smith]], regarded as "one of the best fetchers in the world".<ref name=Man>{{cite news | first = De Jongh | last = Borchardt | title = Gary en Luke staan hul man Wys hulle is reg vir groot dinge, sê Kevin Putt. | date = 4 March 2003 | url = http://152.111.1.88/argief/berigte/beeld/2003/03/04/13/4.html | work = Beeld (Johannesburg) | access-date = 19 May 2011 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20110720180317/http://152.111.1.88/argief/berigte/beeld/2003/03/04/13/4.html | archive-date = 20 July 2011 | url-status = dead }}</ref> Smith had been Watson's hero while he was a schoolboy at Grey.<ref name=Plakkaat>{{cite news | first = De Jongh | last = Borchardt | title = Op skool had Luke 'n plakkaat van Smith (At school Luke had a poster of Smith). | date = 19 February 2003 | url = http://152.111.1.88/argief/berigte/beeld/2003/03/19/16/3.html | work = Beeld (Johannesburg) | access-date = 21 May 2011 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20110720180920/http://152.111.1.88/argief/berigte/beeld/2003/03/19/16/3.html | archive-date = 20 July 2011 | url-status = dead }}</ref> Watson's performance was excellent, according to Putt, who claimed that he and forwards coach [[John Allan (rugby union)|John Allan]] had only recently taught Watson the finer arts of being a fetcher.<ref name=Man />

During the Super 12 season "the exciting" Watson was commended for combining "a high tackle count with good skills" while producing "sparkling tries", as he did in the Sharks' 35–20 loss to the [[Hurricanes (rugby union)|Hurricanes]] in March.<ref name=Russell>{{cite news | first = Stephen | last = Nell | title = Russell ruled out of Bok squad. | date = 27 May 2003 | url = http://www.iol.co.za/sport/russell-ruled-out-of-bok-squad-1.525896 | work = Independent Online (Cape Town & Johannesburg) | access-date = 18 May 2011}}</ref><ref>{{cite news | title = Hurricanes blow Sharks out of the water. | date = 14 March 2003 | url = http://www.iol.co.za/sport/hurricanes-blow-sharks-out-of-the-water-1.524100 | work = Independent Online (Cape Town & Johannesburg) | access-date = 18 May 2011}}</ref> There were some concerns about his "lack of bulk", despite his "gutsy" performances.<ref>{{cite news | first = Michael | last = Shafto | title = Bigger picture for SA rugby 'encouraging'. | date = 10 March 2003 | url = http://www.iol.co.za/sport/bigger-picture-for-sa-rugby-encouraging-1.523940 | work = Independent Online (Cape Town & Johannesburg) | access-date = 18 May 2011}}</ref> A hamstring injury<ref>{{cite news | first = Mike | last = Greenaway | title = Sharks in throes of major injury crisis. | date = 19 March 2003 | url = http://www.iol.co.za/sport/rugby/sharks-in-throes-of-major-injury-crisis-1.524239 | work = Independent Online (Cape Town & Johannesburg) | access-date = 18 May 2011}}</ref> and a bruised hip<ref name=Hip>{{cite news | first = Mike | last = Greenaway | title = Injuries plague the Sharks. | date = 8 April 2003 | url = http://www.iol.co.za/sport/injuries-plague-the-sharks-1.524821?ot=inmsa.ArticlePrintPageLayout.ot | work = Independent Online (Cape Town & Johannesburg) | access-date = 18 May 2011}}</ref> early in March caused Watson to miss Super rugby matches against the [[Highlanders (rugby)|Highlanders]] and the [[Lions (Super Rugby)|Cats]] respectively. His rival for the open-side flank position, [[:fr:Roland Bernard|Roland Bernard]], was selected instead for the game against the [[Chiefs (Super rugby franchise)|Chiefs]]. On his return to the team Watson won the man of the match award in the Sharks' 18–23 defeat to the [[Crusaders (rugby union)|Crusaders]] in [[Christchurch]] on 12 April.<ref name=Nabbi>{{cite news | first = Zayn | last = Nabbi | title = Player of the Year contest hots up. | date = 26 November 2003 | url = http://www.iol.co.za/sport/player-of-the-year-contest-hots-up-1.530916 | work = Independent Online (Cape Town & Johannesburg) | access-date = 19 May 2011}}</ref> He retained his place for the match against the Bulls on 10 May, which his team lost 16–24.<ref name=Hip /> The Sharks ended a miserable and injury-plagued Super 12 season in 11th place with only 3 wins.<ref>{{cite web | url = http://www.rugby.com.au/investec_super_14/super_rugby_archive/2003_results,126109.html | title = 2003 Super 12/14 Final Standings . | access-date = 18 May 2011 | publisher = Rugby.com.au | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20090217185441/http://rugby.com.au/investec_super_14/super_rugby_archive/2003_results,126109.html | archive-date = 17 February 2009 | url-status = dead }}</ref>

The 2003 Currie Cup season started badly for Watson, who had contracted tick-bite fever and was forced to miss the Sharks' first warm-up game in July. He was replaced by [[Solly Tyibilika]], newly arrived in Durban from the {{Rut|Lions}}.<ref>{{cite news | first = Zayn | last = Nabbi | title = I want to prove myself, says Tyibilika. | date = 8 July 2003 | url = http://www.iol.co.za/sport/i-want-to-prove-myself-says-tyibilika-1.526984 | work = Independent Online (Cape Town & Johannesburg) | access-date = 19 May 2011}}</ref> Watson then injured his leg, and Tyibilika retained his place for subsequent games against the Eagles and [[Griquas (rugby)|Griquas]].<ref>{{cite news | first = Mike | last = Greenaway | title = Snyman to pitch up for Sharks. | date = 30 July 2003 | url = http://www.iol.co.za/sport/snyman-to-pitch-up-for-sharks-1.527567 | work = Independent Online (Cape Town & Johannesburg) | access-date = 19 May 2011}}</ref> During the season Watson was switched from flank to eighthman five times, anticipating where coaches would use him later at the Stormers and Bath.<ref>{{cite news | first = Herbert | last = Pretorius | title = Stormers dalk sonder Schalk (Stormers possibly without Schalk). | date = 12 January 2005 | url = http://152.111.1.88/argief/berigte/beeld/2005/04/12/B2/26/02.html | work = Beeld (Johannesburg) | access-date = 21 May 2011 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20110810143116/http://152.111.1.88/argief/berigte/beeld/2005/04/12/B2/26/02.html | archive-date = 10 August 2011 | url-status = dead }}</ref> In the Currie Cup final against the Bulls which the Sharks lost 19–40, Watson replaced Brad McLeod-Henderson in the 54-minute of the match. He was not nominated for any category in the end-of-season awards, despite a reporter calling him "the country's top rookie loose-forward".<ref name=Nabbi />

Watson's good form during the 2004 Super 12 season made him a recruiting target for professional teams. While he was still under contract to the Sharks, his terms were to expire at the end of 2004. During the Currie Cup season Watson was rumored to be seeking to represent the Stormers in the 2005 Super 12 season, and by 30 August the Stormers had offered him a contract.<ref>{{cite news | first = Stephen | last = Nell | title = WP close in on Watson. | date = 30 August 2004 | url = http://www.iol.co.za/sport/wp-close-in-on-watson-1.537878 | work = Independent Online (Cape Town & Johannesburg) | access-date = 19 May 2011}}</ref> On 14 September Watson publicly announced that he had signed with the Stormers, despite efforts by the Sharks' management to retain his services.<ref>{{cite news | author = SAPA | title = Luke Watson signs for WP. | date = 30 August 2004 | url = http://www.iol.co.za/sport/luke-watson-signs-for-wp-1.538230 | work = Independent Online (Cape Town & Johannesburg) | access-date = 19 May 2011}}</ref> Watson expected to play out the remainder of his Sharks contract in the Currie Cup until the Stormers' started their Super rugby training in December 2004. Instead, he was released on the same day as he made his announcement. Both Sharks CEO Brian van Zyl and coach Kevin Putt indicated that they preferred to work with players who had a long-term commitment to the team. Watson was left without a professional home base for the remaining three months of the Currie Cup season.<ref>{{cite news | first = Zayn | last = Nabbi | title = 'Shocked' Watson gets the boot. | date = 14 September 2004 | url = http://www.iol.co.za/sport/shocked-watson-gets-the-boot-1.538245 | work = Independent Online (Cape Town & Johannesburg) | access-date = 19 May 2011}}</ref><ref>{{cite news | first = Michael | last = Shafto | title = Bok coach shouldn't forget 'homeless' Watson. | date = 18 September 2004 | url = http://www.iol.co.za/sport/bok-coach-shouldn-t-forget-homeless-watson-1.538330 | work = Independent Online (Cape Town & Johannesburg) | access-date = 19 May 2011}}</ref> He spent the time with his parents in Port Elizabeth to recuperate from injuries and prepare for upcoming season. Meanwhile, he joined local club SK Walmers which had strong ties to the black community and his family.<ref name=Baai>{{cite news | first = John | last = Goliath | title = Luke in Baai voor sy droomseisoen. [Luke in the Bay before his dream season]. | date = 21 September 2004 | url = http://152.111.1.88/argief/berigte/beeld/2004/09/21/B1/15/04.html | work = Beeld (Johannesburg) | access-date = 30 May 2011 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20110810143023/http://152.111.1.88/argief/berigte/beeld/2004/09/21/B1/15/04.html | archive-date = 10 August 2011 | url-status = dead }}</ref>

===Western Province, 2005===
In 2005 Watson moved to [[Cape Town]] where he played for both the Western Province Currie Cup and Stormers Super rugby sides.<ref name=Grey /> His home club was [https://web.archive.org/web/20120402161649/http://www.skwrugby.co.za/ Schotsekloof Walmers Rugby Football Club].<ref name=WPProfile /> Coach [[Gert Smal]] included Watson in his Super 12 training camp at [[Somerset-West]] in January, and in the team for their warm-up games against Boland and Welsh side [[Dragons (rugby union)|Gwent Dragons]].<ref>{{cite news | first = De Jongh | last = Borchardt | title = Stormers kies Jake se manne (Stormers chose Jake's men). | date = 18 January 2005 | url = http://152.111.1.88/argief/berigte/beeld/2005/01/18/B1/22/04.html | work = Beeld (Johannesburg) | access-date = 21 May 2011 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20110720180949/http://152.111.1.88/argief/berigte/beeld/2005/01/18/B1/22/04.html | archive-date = 20 July 2011 | url-status = dead }}</ref>

Watson made his Super 12 debut for the Stormers against his old team, the Sharks, on 25 February. He dismissed suggestions that his unhappy departure from the Natal team would cause unlawful play on either side.<ref>{{cite news | first = Herbert | last = Pretorius | title = Luke sê Putt speel speletjies voor stryd (Luke says Putt plays games before contest). | date = 23 February 2005 | url = http://152.111.1.88/argief/berigte/beeld/2005/02/23/B1/44/01.html | work = Beeld (Johannesburg) | access-date = 21 May 2011 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20110810143043/http://152.111.1.88/argief/berigte/beeld/2005/02/23/B1/44/01.html | archive-date = 10 August 2011 | url-status = dead }}</ref> Ahead of the game, the media made much of the "dream combination" of Watson, Burger, and [[Joe van Niekerk]].<ref>{{cite news | first = Herbert | last = Pretorius | title = Watson saam met Burger kan Jake verkeerd bewys (Watson together with Burger can prove Jake wrong). | date = 22 February 2005 | url = http://152.111.1.88/argief/berigte/beeld/2005/02/22/B1/36/04.html | work = Beeld (Johannesburg) | access-date = 21 May 2011 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20110810143036/http://152.111.1.88/argief/berigte/beeld/2005/02/22/B1/36/04.html | archive-date = 10 August 2011 | url-status = dead }}</ref> Watson and Burger agreed before the match to take turns to act as fetcher, depending on who was on the open side of the playing field at scrums.<ref>{{cite news | first = Herbert | last = Pretorius | title = Schalk hou nie terug oor hy gemerkte man is (Burger does not hold back despite being a marked man). | date = 25 February 2005 | url = http://152.111.1.88/argief/berigte/beeld/2005/02/25/B1/48/04.html | work = Beeld (Johannesburg) | access-date = 21 May 2011 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20110810143051/http://152.111.1.88/argief/berigte/beeld/2005/02/25/B1/48/04.html | archive-date = 10 August 2011 | url-status = dead }}</ref> Watson had looked forward to playing with Burger and Van Niekerk, who he described as " 'quality players from whom I will learn a lot' ".<ref name=Baai />

Watson's perceived lineout weakness was a factor when Smal replaced him with the 197&nbsp;cm tall [[Adri Badenhorst]]<ref name="SARU Player Profile Adri Badenhorst">{{SA Rugby Player Profile | id=21292 | name=Adri Badenhorst | date=30 May 2016}}</ref> for the 19 March game against the [[New South Wales Waratahs|Waratahs]] in Sydney. Ironically, Watson replaced Badenhorst in the 67th minute of the game.<ref>{{cite news | first = Herbert | last = Pretorius | title = Breyton trek weer aan kortste ent (Breyten gets the short straw again). | date = 17 March 2005 | url = http://152.111.1.88/argief/berigte/beeld/2005/03/17/B1/44/04.html | work = Beeld (Johannesburg) | access-date = 21 May 2011 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20110810143100/http://152.111.1.88/argief/berigte/beeld/2005/03/17/B1/44/04.html | archive-date = 10 August 2011 | url-status = dead }}</ref><ref>{{cite web | url = http://www.thestormers.com/stats.asp?id=11286 | title = Match Stats: Waratahs vs Investec Stormers. | access-date = 23 May 2011 | work = TheStormers.com | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20110725032935/http://www.thestormers.com/stats.asp?id=11286 | archive-date = 25 July 2011 | url-status = dead }}</ref> Despite being restricted to his hotel room during the week by Smal due to signs of [[Influenza|flu]], Watson played in the Stormers' 9–12 loss to the Hurricanes in their next game.<ref>{{cite news | first = Herbert | last = Pretorius | title = Luke Watson in 'kwarantyn' (Luke Watson in 'quarantine'). | date = 23 March 2005 | url = http://152.111.1.88/argief/berigte/beeld/2005/03/23/B1/38/01.html | work = Beeld (Johannesburg) | access-date = 21 May 2011 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20110810143111/http://152.111.1.88/argief/berigte/beeld/2005/03/23/B1/38/01.html | archive-date = 10 August 2011 | url-status = dead }}</ref> Due to injuries Watson, Burger, and Van Niekerk would not play together again before the game against the Chiefs on 30 April.<ref>{{cite news | first = Herbert | last = Pretorius | title = Shimmy lê nie wakker (Shimmy does not lie awake). | date = 29 April 2005 | url = http://152.111.1.88/argief/berigte/beeld/2005/04/29/B1/48/01.html | work = Beeld (Johannesburg) | access-date = 21 May 2011 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20110810143129/http://152.111.1.88/argief/berigte/beeld/2005/04/29/B1/48/01.html | archive-date = 10 August 2011 | url-status = dead }}</ref> Throughout the season rugby journalists commented positively on Watson's performance, particularly his "excellent fetching skills".<ref>{{cite news | first = Morris | last = Gilbert | title = Bulls wis wat wag (Bulls know what awaits). | date = 13 May 2005 | url = http://152.111.1.88/argief/berigte/beeld/2005/05/13/B1/36/03.html | work = Beeld (Johannesburg) | access-date = 21 May 2011 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20110810143147/http://152.111.1.88/argief/berigte/beeld/2005/05/13/B1/36/03.html | archive-date = 10 August 2011 | url-status = dead }}</ref> One said that at times his playing "set the field alight",<ref>{{cite news | first = Gert | last = Sevenster | title = Bulls hoop op semi-finaal (Stormers hope for semi-final). | date = 3 May 2005 | url = http://152.111.1.88/argief/berigte/beeld/2005/05/03/GO/24/8.html | work = Beeld (Johannesburg) | access-date = 21 May 2011 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20110810143141/http://152.111.1.88/argief/berigte/beeld/2005/05/03/GO/24/8.html | archive-date = 10 August 2011 | url-status = dead }}</ref> although another lamented that he lacked Burger's physical abilities.<ref>{{cite news | first = Herbert | last = Pretorius | title = Stormers bly Schalk is terug (Stormers glad Schalk is back). | date = 26 April 2005 | url = http://152.111.1.88/argief/berigte/beeld/2005/04/26/B1/36/04.html | work = Beeld (Johannesburg) | access-date = 21 May 2011 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20110810143124/http://152.111.1.88/argief/berigte/beeld/2005/04/26/B1/36/04.html | archive-date = 10 August 2011 | url-status = dead }}</ref> The Stormers ended the season at 9th place with 3 wins and one drawn game, 27 points behind [[2005 Super 12 season|log]] leaders Crusaders.

A shoulder injury prevented Watson from playing in Western Province's first warm-up game of the Currie Cup season against the Lions on 11 June. He was one of 17 regulars who were unavailable for Province at the time because of Springbok squad duties or injuries.<ref>{{cite news | first = Hennie | last = Brandt | title = Blits Wylie draf uit op buitesenter teen WP (Fast Wylie runs out as inside centre against WP). | date = 9 June 2005 | url = http://152.111.1.88/argief/berigte/beeld/2005/06/09/B1/34/02.html | work = Beeld (Johannesburg) | access-date = 22 May 2011 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20110810143153/http://152.111.1.88/argief/berigte/beeld/2005/06/09/B1/34/02.html | archive-date = 10 August 2011 | url-status = dead }}</ref> But he recovered sufficiently to play in the second warm-up match against the French [[Barbarian Rugby Club|Barbarians]] on 16 June.<ref>{{cite news | first = Herbert | last = Pretorius | title = Hendrik is ná tien maande weer terug (Hendrik is back again after ten months). | date = 15 June 2005 | url = http://152.111.1.88/argief/berigte/beeld/2005/06/15/B1/42/05.html | work = Beeld (Johannesburg) | access-date = 22 May 2011 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20110810143159/http://152.111.1.88/argief/berigte/beeld/2005/06/15/B1/42/05.html | archive-date = 10 August 2011 | url-status = dead }}</ref> Because he had been used in this position by the Sharks, Province coach Kobus van der Merwe temporarily switched Watson to eighthman for Province's opening Currie Cup match against the Cheetahs on 24 June.<ref>{{cite news | first = Herbert | last = Pretorius | title = Beserings knou WP voor stryd (Injuries hamper Province before contest). | date = 23 June 2005 | url = http://152.111.1.88/argief/berigte/beeld/2005/06/23/B1/46/03.html | work = Beeld (Johannesburg) | access-date = 22 May 2011 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20110810143205/http://152.111.1.88/argief/berigte/beeld/2005/06/23/B1/46/03.html | archive-date = 10 August 2011 | url-status = dead }}</ref> He was back at flank when he scored a try in the next game against the [[Griffons (rugby team)|Griffons]] on 1 July.<ref>{{cite news | title = Province back on the winning track | date = 1 July 2005 | url = http://www.planet-rugby.com/Tournaments/Currie_Cup/story_44637.shtml | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20060512061043/http://www.planet-rugby.com/Tournaments/Currie_Cup/story_44637.shtml | url-status = dead | archive-date = 12 May 2006 | work = Planet Rugby | access-date = 22 May 2011}}</ref> He missed the game against the [[Leopards (rugby team)|Leopards]] because of flu, and was relegated to the substitutes' bench for the following one against the Bulldogs. [https://web.archive.org/web/20110725032858/http://www.thestormers.com/profiles.asp?id=25 David Hendricks] took his place for both matches.<ref>{{cite news | first = Jaco | last = Van der Merwe | title = Luiperds-sege oor WP sal nie verrassing wees (Leopard victory against WP will not surprise). | date = 9 July 2005 | url = http://152.111.1.88/argief/berigte/beeld/2005/07/09/B5/24/05.html | work = Beeld (Johannesburg) | access-date = 22 May 2011 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20110810143216/http://152.111.1.88/argief/berigte/beeld/2005/07/09/B5/24/05.html | archive-date = 10 August 2011 | url-status = dead }}</ref><ref>{{cite news | first = Herbert | last = Pretorius | title = WP kan al vanaand 'n plek kry in die Topagt (WP can get place in Top Eight tonight already). | date = 15 July 2005 | url = http://152.111.1.88/argief/berigte/beeld/2005/07/15/B1/30/03.html | work = Beeld (Johannesburg) | access-date = 22 May 2011 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20110810143222/http://152.111.1.88/argief/berigte/beeld/2005/07/15/B1/30/03.html | archive-date = 10 August 2011 | url-status = dead }}</ref> Watson regained his place and scored two tries in the 42–16 victory over Griquas on 29 July.<ref>{{cite news | first = Eunice | last = Visagie | title = WP klop Griekwas maklik in Kaapstad (WP beat Griquas easily). | date = 30 July 2005 | url = http://152.111.1.88/argief/berigte/beeld/2005/07/30/B5/28/03.html | work = Beeld (Johannesburg) | access-date = 22 May 2011 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20110810143226/http://152.111.1.88/argief/berigte/beeld/2005/07/30/B5/28/03.html | archive-date = 10 August 2011 | url-status = dead }}</ref> He did not play in Western Province's 11–16 semi-final Currie Cup loss to the Cheetahs.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.planet-rugby.com/Tournaments/Currie_Cup/story_46725.shtml |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20051219005440/http://www.planet-rugby.com/Tournaments/Currie_Cup/story_46725.shtml |url-status=dead |archive-date=19 December 2005 |title=Cheetahs end WP's dream again. |access-date=27 May 2011 }}</ref>

==Controversies==

===Relationship with former national coach Jake White, 2002–07===
In 2003 coach Jake White chose [[Schalk Burger]] and omitted Watson for the South African under-21 team that won the world championship. White suggested that Watson switch to hooker instead where he could reach the highest echelons, as Watson did not have the requisite attributes to be a first-class flank. White's suggestions may have been prompted by his own experience, when as a youth player he had to switch from flank to hooker because he was too short.<ref name=Jake /> White reportedly insisted that "Watson would never make a side he coached".<ref>{{cite book | last1 = Keohane | first1 = Mark | title = Springbok Rugby Uncovered. | publisher = Zebra Press | year = 2004 | location = Cape Town | page = 103}}</ref>

By 2004 White was said to be against picking Burger and Watson in the same team,<ref>{{cite news | url = http://www.republikein.com.na/sport/luke-watson-signs-for-wp.30143.php | title = Luke Watson signs for WP. | date = 14 September 2004 | access-date = 8 May 2011 | newspaper = Die Republikein (Windhoek)}}</ref> Although he had shown "sensational form" in 2004, Watson was again ignored by White and selectors [[Andre Markgraaff]] and [[Pieter Jooste]] in favour of Solly Tyibilika, who had lost his position to Watson at the Sharks during the season.<ref>{{cite news | first = Mike | last = Greenaway | title = Tyibilika gets the nod over Watson. | date = 9 September 2004 | url = http://www.iol.co.za/sport/tyibilika-gets-the-nod-over-watson-1.538117 | work = Independent Online (Cape Town & Johannesburg) | access-date = 18 May 2011}}</ref><ref>{{cite news | first = Michael | last = Tarr | title = Davidson 'gutted' by White's decision. | date = 18 May 2004 | url = http://www.iol.co.za/sport/davidson-gutted-by-white-s-decision-1.535131 | work = Independent Online (Cape Town & Johannesburg) | access-date = 18 May 2011}}</ref> Some believe that White's preference for Burger motivated Watson's 2005 move to Cape Town, where he could prove himself against Burger in the Western Province team.<ref name=VDBerg />

====Non-selection for Springboks, 2006====
Watson showed such good form in the 2006 Super 14 competition that he received that year's Vodacom Super Rugby Player of the Tournament award.<ref name=autogenerated8>{{cite news|title=Robbie v Hoskins. |date=15 May 2007 |url=http://www.news24.com/News24/Sport/Rugby/0,,2-9-838_2113687,00.html |work=News24.com |access-date=12 May 2011 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080609191622/http://www.news24.com/News24/Sport/Rugby/0%2C%2C2-9-838_2113687%2C00.html |archive-date=9 June 2008 }}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.thestormers.com/default.asp?aid=195639 |title=Watson is Super 14 Player of the Year. |publisher=The Vodacom Stormers' Official Website |date=2 November 2006 |access-date=19 May 2009 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090617191414/http://www.thestormers.com/default.asp?aid=195639 |archive-date=17 June 2009 }}</ref> According to statistics compiled by the [[New Zealand]] company Verusco, Watson was the second best openside flanker in the 2006 Super 14 competition, preceded only by [[Richie McCaw]] and followed by [[Phil Waugh]].<ref name=Greenway />

Despite Watson's form during that season, national coach Jake White again preferred 2004 IRB Player of the Year Burger over Watson, this time for the No. 6 position in the Springbok squad. At the time White stated that Watson offered limited options, and that South Africa had many quality loose forwards who offer more. White said in 2009 of Watson: "I don't think he's a good rugby player. He is a most overrated player".<ref>{{cite news | title = Luke is the most overrated player – Jake. | date = 19 May 2009 | url = http://www.iol.co.za/index.phpset_id=6&click_id=3045&art_id=vn20071112024850224C854216 | work = Independent Online (Cape Town & Johannesburg) | access-date = 12 May 2011}}</ref><ref name=Carte /> By contrast McCaw described Watson in 2006 as "an excellent player" and "perhaps...unlucky not to be part of the Springbok set-up".<ref>{{cite news | first = J J | last = Harmse | title = McCaw: Missing Luke a mystery. | date = 30 August 2006 | url = http://www.news24.com/Columnists/Archive/JJHarmse/McCaw-Missing-Luke-a-mystery-20060830 | work = News24 | access-date = 17 May 2011}}</ref>

White repeatedly emphasised the need for tall loose-forwards who could add extra line-out options.<ref>{{cite news | first = Mark | last = Keohane | title = White's World Cup way . | date = 1 June 2007 | url = http://www.keo.co.za/2007/06/01/whites-world-cup-way | work = Keo.co.za | access-date = 12 May 2011 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20120731195140/http://keo.co.za/2007/06/01/whites-world-cup-way/ | archive-date = 31 July 2012 | url-status = dead }}</ref><ref>{{cite news | first = Gavin | last = Rich | title = Watson pullout: Lukewarm play or red-hot row. | date = 26 October 2008 | url = http://www.iol.co.za/index.php?click_id=18&art_id=vn20081026092433389C448645&set_id= | work = Independent Online (Cape Town & Johannesburg) | access-date = 12 May 2011}}</ref> Similar sentiments regarding stature, while not aimed at Watson specifically, had been expressed by other rugby pundits. Italy coach and former Springbok coach Nick Mallett has been a supporter of Watson.<ref>{{cite news | first = Adnaan | last = Mohamed | title = Q&A: Nick Mallett. | date = 23 October 2006 | url = http://www.news24.com/xArchive/Sport/Rugby/QA-Nick-Mallett-20061023 | work = News24 | access-date = 12 May 2011}}</ref> When asked in 2008 why in his opinion the Springboks won the 2007 World Cup, Mallett told an audience that the reason the Springboks won was because Schalk Burger is the smallest player in the Springboks' forward pack.<ref>{{cite news | first = Craig | last = Ray | title = Duanne's in the fast lane at back of the scrum | date = 3 April 2008 | url = http://www.timeslive.co.za/thetimes/article13449.ece | work = Times Live | access-date = 12 May 2011}}</ref> Schalk Burger is 1,93m tall, while Watson is 1,84m. And in March 2008 ''[[SA Rugby Magazine]]'' quoted newly appointed Springbok coach Peter de Villiers as saying: "A small talented guy will always be better than a big untalented guy, and a big talented guy is better than a small talented guy. I will select the best player for the job".<ref>{{cite news | first = Simon | last = Borchardt | title = De Villiers: Believe in me. | date = 7 March 2008 | work = Keo.co.za }}</ref> After Jake White's preferred selections won the 2007 World Cup, England line-out specialist Ben Kay was quoted as saying: "Their line-out was fantastic and was a major difference between the two teams. They have been the best line-out in the world for many years and gave us enormous problems."<ref>{{cite news|title=Springboks struggle to describe elation. |date=21 October 2007 |url=http://www.rugbyworldcup.com/home/fixtures/round=104/match=10120/analysis.html/ |work=IRB.com |access-date=12 May 2011 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20071023034721/http://www.rugbyworldcup.com/home/fixtures/round%3D104/match%3D10120/analysis.html/ |archive-date=23 October 2007 }}</ref>

White's public stance against shorter loose forwards was contradicted in November 2006 when he included [[Kabamba Floors]] for the Springbok squad against England in the place of an injured [[Pierre Spies]]. At 1.75m Floors is 9&nbsp;cm shorter than Watson.<ref name="SARU Player Profile Kabamba Floors">{{SA Rugby Player Profile | id=25569 | name=Kabamba Floors | date=30 May 2016}}</ref> White admitted at the time that his view that Floors also was too short had been incorrect.<ref>{{cite news | url = http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/rugby_union/6173120.stm | title = Springboks hand debut to Floors. | access-date = 16 May 2011 | date = 22 November 2006 | work = BBC Sport}}</ref>

SARU president [[Oregan Hoskins]], certain journalists and Watson himself at the time accused White of personal bias.<ref name=Greenway /><ref name=autogenerated7>{{cite news | first = Gary | last = Lemke | title = Watson launches scathing attack on White. | date = 18 August 2006 | url = http://www.iol.co.za/sport/watson-launches-scathing-attack-on-white-1.561393 | work = Independent Online (Cape Town & Johannesburg) | access-date = 12 May 2011}}</ref> For them, Watson's non-selection was due partly to the fact that his father Daniel "Cheeky" Watson was a former anti-apartheid activist, who alienated himself from the SA Rugby establishment by playing club rugby in the 'black' townships of [[Eastern Cape|Eastern Province]]<ref>{{cite news | first = Vuyisa | last = Qunta | title = Airbrushed out of rugby history. | date = 26 April 2007 | url = https://mg.co.za/article/2007-04-26-airbrushed-out-of-rugby-history | work = Mail & Guardian (Johannesburg) | access-date = 12 May 2011}}</ref> at a time when this was illegal in terms of racist [[apartheid]] legislation. Watson claimed that Mike Howe, one of his coaches at Grey High School, had told him while he was still a student there that White had made derogatory comments about Watson. Cheeky Watson suggested that Howe had influenced White against Luke – a charge Howe denies. The elder Watson said that White, while the coach of the Under-21 national team, had told a South African Rugby Football Union before witnesses that he would not select Luke " 'because he would come with his father's baggage' ".<ref name=VDBerg />

Hoskins explained that he interfered in Watson's 2007 selection because "the relationship between the two was extremely strained for a very long time. It had gone past the breaking point and I felt the player was being prejudiced".<ref name="Hoskins">{{cite news | url = https://mg.co.za/article/2007-11-22-hoskins-i-stood-by-jake-white | title = Hoskins: I stood by Jake White. | date = 22 November 2007 | access-date = 10 May 2011 | newspaper = The Mail & Guardian (Johannesburg)}}</ref>

White dismissed the charge of bias in 2006, claiming that his reasons were purely rugby-related and that he had "no personal issues with anybody".<ref name=Jake>{{cite news | first = Adnaan | last = Mohamed | title = Q&A: Jake White. | date = 11 September 2006 | url = http://www.news24.com/xArchive/Sport/Rugby/QA-Jake-White-20060911 | work = News24 | access-date = 12 May 2011}}</ref>

====''SA Sports Illustrated'' interview, 2006====
Apart from his objections to what he perceived as Watson's limited skills and lack of stature, White implied that Watson was not a team player, and would have been a divisive influence on the Springbok team if selected.<ref name=autogenerated7 /><ref name="Loses"/><ref>{{cite news | url = http://www.capeargus.co.za/?fArticleId=4119670 | title = Stomers boot out Luke Watson as Captain. | work = Cape Argus (Cape Town) | date = 19 May 2009 | access-date = 12 May 2011 | author = Dale | url-status = dead | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20080609200339/http://www.capeargus.co.za/?fArticleId=4119670 | archive-date = 9 June 2008}}</ref><ref>{{cite web | url = http://www.news24.com/News24/Columnists/JJ_Harmse/0,,2-1630-1631_2125897,00.html | title = The day White picked Watson | publisher = News24 | date = 20 June 1995 | access-date = 19 May 2009}}</ref>

White's accusation that Watson was divisive was no doubt supported by Watson's public criticism of Jake White in a 2006 ''[[SA Sports Illustrated]]'' article. Watson accused White of a "lack of integrity", as White had "attacked [[Schalk Brits]]" for wanting to play professionally in England, yet he himself had "tried to hold SA Rugby to ransom with an overseas offer". Watson also questioned the credentials of captain [[John Smit]] and he said there was no longer any pride and passion in the Springbok squad. Watson reportedly said: "Obviously I would love to play for the Springboks, but I do not want to find myself in a position where I'm compromising my beliefs in equality, integrity and honour to achieve that goal."<ref name=autogenerated7 /><ref name=autogenerated3>{{cite news | first = Mark | last = Keohane | title = Luke's fight for acceptance. | date = 5 August 2007 | url = http://www.keo.co.za/2007/06/08/lukes-fight-for-acceptance/ | work = Keo.co.za | access-date = 12 May 2011 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20110111131012/http://www.keo.co.za/2007/06/08/lukes-fight-for-acceptance/ | archive-date = 11 January 2011 | url-status = dead }}</ref> Watson's comments in the 2006 ''SA Sports Illustrated'' interview revealed his own negative feeling at the time towards White, captain John Smit and the squad. When Watson was finally selected as a Springbok in 2007 and was asked in media interviews to comment on his earlier public criticisms, he maintained that he stood by what he had said a year earlier.<ref name="autogenerated3" />

Watson's comments raised concerns that he could be charged by SARU for "bringing the game into disrepute", a broadly defined transgression that can be used to sanction players and officials who make negative public statements. For example, in 2000 then-national coach [[Nick Mallett]] was charged for publicly criticising SARU for "greed" in inflating Test match ticket prices.<ref>{{cite news | title = Mallett a candidate for England role. | date = 28 September 2000 | url = http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/rugby_union/945480.stm | work = BBC Sport | access-date = 14 May 2011}}</ref><ref>{{cite news | first = Chris | last = Hewett | title = Mallett resigns as South Africa coach. | date = 28 September 2000 | url = http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/rugby_union/945480.stm | work = The Independent (London) | access-date = 14 May 2011}}</ref> White himself had been threatened with sanctions for breaching this regulation.<ref>{{cite news | url = http://www.citizen.co.za/index/article.aspx?pDesc=52787,1,22 | title = Will Jake White be disciplined? | publisher = The Citizen | date = 14 November 2007 | access-date = 19 May 2009}}</ref>

No action was apparently taken by SARU against Watson for bringing the game into disrepute, nor any explanation provided why it had not done so. Springboks or officials are not always charged for making negative public comments about teammates. Smit was not sanctioned for his "cancerous effect" comments about Watson, for example. "Bringing the game into disrepute" is so broadly defined that it has been used to remove players or officials that have fallen into disfavour. ''[[The Independent]]'''s correspondent suggested that such an internal settling of scores had happened to Mallet. By reaffirming his 2006 position after his 2007 selection, Watson may have breached the Springbok code of conduct according to which a player undertakes not to discredit or insult a Springbok teammate. But a player makes this commitment to the code when senior teammates initiate new Springboks after their debut game, and Watson's teammates had refused to initiate him.<ref name=Secret /><ref>{{cite news | first = Mark | last = Keohane | title = Watson set for testing initiation. | date = 8 May 2007 | url = http://www.iol.co.za/sport/watson-set-for-testing-initiation-1.573785 | work = Independent Online (Cape Town & Johannesburg) | access-date = 12 May 2011}}</ref>

====Resolution====
In October 2008 White was said to have reconciled with Watson by shaking hands with him at a service of the [[Hillsong Church]] in Cape Town that both then attended. White was quoted as saying " 'I feel sorry for Luke...and it is not for me to judge him". White's actions were ascribed to his conversion to Christianity.<ref>{{cite news | first = Ryan | last = Vrede | title = White reconciles with Watson. | date = 22 October 2008 | url = http://www.keo.co.za/2008/10/22/white-reconciles-with-watson/ | work = Keo.co.za | access-date = 12 May 2011 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20110928201645/http://www.keo.co.za/2008/10/22/white-reconciles-with-watson/ | archive-date = 28 September 2011 | url-status = dead }}</ref><ref>{{cite news | first = Craig | last = McKune | title = Jake White's church is 'toxic Christianity'. | date = 10 January 2009 | url = http://www.iol.co.za/news/south-africa/jake-white-s-church-is-toxic-christianity-1.430809 | work = Independent Online (Cape Town & Johannesburg) | access-date = 12 May 2011}}</ref>

===SA Rugby Players' Association's 2006 player of the year award===
Due to his good form in 2006, Watson was nominated for awards as the Players' Player of the Year, Super 14 Player of the Year, and Currie Cup Player of the Year. Rugby journalist [[Mark Keohane]] reported that on the morning of Monday 30 October 2006 Watson had been confirmed as the winner. But the decision was overturned later the same day and awarded to Free State loose forward Kabamba Floors. Players' Association chair [[Piet Heymans]] said that Floors had won by 8 votes when voting closed at 5pm on Monday. Heymans' assertion was placed in doubt when SARU revealed that the vote had actually been tied, and that SARU president Oregan Hoskins had cast the deciding vote in favour of Floors to break the deadlock. Keohane questioned why SARU's leadership became involved in what was the voting prerogative of players. He alleged that White and Hoskins had intervened when it appeared that Watson would win, and that in this context the Players' Association had demanded a recount. Keohane suggested that a joint award would have had precedent in that the Currie Cup had been shared among teams who were tied at the end of the season.<ref>{{cite news | title = Yet another rugby controversy. | date = 31 October 2006 | url = http://www.news24.com/xArchive/Sport/Rugby/Yet-another-rugby-controversy-20061031 | work = News24 | access-date = 12 May 2011}}</ref><ref>{{cite news | first = Mark | last = Keohane | title = Watson floored in voting drama. | date = 31 October 2006 | url = http://www.keo.co.za/2006/10/31/watson-floored-in-voting-drama/ | work = Keo.co.za | access-date = 12 May 2011 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20110928201707/http://www.keo.co.za/2006/10/31/watson-floored-in-voting-drama/ | archive-date = 28 September 2011 | url-status = dead }}</ref>

===Politicised Springbok selection, 2007===
In May 2007 White and selectors Pieter Jooste and [[Ian Macintosh]], the former national coach, submitted a list of 45 players to the South African Rugby Union for the Springbok training squad. After White's list was submitted, Watson was added to the list without Jake White's knowledge by SARU President Hoskins, fellow SARU executive council member [[Koos Basson]], and Springbok team manager Zola Yeye – a long-time friend of the Watson family.<ref>{{cite news | title = Rugby, Race, and Nationalism (With a Twist). | date = 26 May 2007 | url = http://africa.foreignpolicyblogs.com/2007/05/26/rugby-race-and-nationalism-with-a-twist/ | work = Africa – The World Affairs Blog Network | access-date = 12 May 2011 | archive-url = https://archive.today/20120707012734/http://africa.foreignpolicyblogs.com/2007/05/26/rugby-race-and-nationalism-with-a-twist/ | archive-date = 7 July 2012 | url-status = dead }}</ref> Hoskins later said in an interview with Talk Radio 702 host [[John Robbie]] that he had added Watson<ref name=autogenerated8 /> because Watson was South Africa's 2006 Super 14 Player of the Year. Politicians such as Butana Komphela, ANC chairman of the parliamentary sports portfolio committee, and the then-Western Cape Premier Ebrahim Rasool, also insisted on Watson's inclusion. Rasool went so far as to say that Watson should be regarded as a "black player" based on his father's anti-apartheid contribution, and that he should therefore be included in the Springbok team ahead of "white players of equal talent".<ref>{{cite news | first = Murray | last = Williams | author2 = Dale | title = Luke Watson is black – Rasool. | date = 15 May 2007 | url = http://www.iol.co.za/sport/luke-watson-is-black-rasool-1.572615 | work = Independent Online (Cape Town & Johannesburg) | access-date = 12 May 2011}}</ref>

Jake White considered legal action if the SARU executive interfered further with his final team selection.<ref name="Rasool">{{cite news | url = http://www.iol.co.za/sport/luke-watson-is-black-rasool-1.572615 | title = Luke Watson is black – Rasool. | date = 17 June 2005 | access-date = 9 May 2011 | last = Williams | first = Murray | newspaper = Independent Online (Cape Town & Johannesburg)}}</ref> However, White eventually accepted SARU's decision to include Watson in the Springboks. The senior players then refused to include him in the traditional initiation ceremony for newly capped players, due to the nepotistic manner of his selection.<ref name=Carte>{{cite web | url = http://www.carteblanche.co.za/Display/Display.asp?Id=3420 | title = Jake White | publisher = Carte Blanche | date = 16 December 2007 | access-date = 19 May 2009 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20071116135043/http://www.carteblanche.co.za/Display/Display.asp?Id=3420 | archive-date = 16 November 2007 | url-status = dead }}</ref><ref name=autogenerated3 />

In his autobiography ''In Black and White – The Jake White Story'', White mentions that he was approached at the start of the 2007 international season by lawyer Brian Biebuyck on behalf of the Watson family. Biebuyck, who was also White's lawyer at the time,<ref name=Captain>{{cite news | first = Mark | last = Keohane | author2 = Dale Granger | title = Luke for Bok captain. | date = 9 June 2007 | url = http://www.iol.co.za/sport/luke-for-bok-captain-1.573806?ot=inmsa.ArticlePrintPageLayout.ot | work = Independent Online (Cape Town & Johannesburg) | access-date = 28 May 2011}}</ref> passed a nine-point proposal to White. These included the selection of Watson in the World Cup squad; in return, White's contract with SA Rugby would be extended beyond the 2007 World Cup. Failure to select Luke Watson would result in him losing his job before the World Cup. White claims that the Watsons subsequently backed down. Luke's father, Cheeky Watson, has denied these claims.<ref>{{cite news | first = John | last = Bishop | title = Politics, backstabbing and … SA rugby. | date = 8 December 2007 | url = http://www.witness.co.za/?showcontent&global%5B_id%5D=1147 | work = The Witness | access-date = 12 May 2011}}</ref><ref name=Laughable />

Watson made his controversial Springbok debut against [[Samoa national rugby union team|Manu Samoa]] on 9 June 2007 but made little impression, and was substituted early in the second half after sustaining a rib injury.<ref name=Loses />
<ref name="autogenerated6">{{cite news | url = http://www.keo.co.za/2007/06/10/luke-how-watson-performed/ | title = Luke how Watson performed. | work = Keo.co.za | date = 10 May 2007 | access-date = 12 May 2011 | last = Keohane | first = Mark | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20110719031723/http://www.keo.co.za/2007/06/10/luke-how-watson-performed/ | archive-date = 19 July 2011 | url-status = dead }}</ref><ref name="Boat">{{cite news | url = http://www.iol.co.za/sport/luke-misses-world-cup-boat-1.574844 | title = Luke misses World Cup boat. | work = Independent Online (Cape Town & Johannesburg) | date = 4 July 2007 | access-date = 13 May 2011 | author = Dale}}</ref>

Watson's father has since told South African newspapers that Luke never wanted to play for the Springboks under White. Watson Snr also boycotted his son's capping ceremony, apparently in protest against White's attitude towards his son.<ref name=Laughable>{{cite web | url = http://www.news24.com/xArchive/Sport/Rugby/Watson-Revelations-laughable-20071111 | title = Watson: Revelations laughable. | access-date = 28 May 2011 | last = Nell | first = Stephen | date = 11 November 2007 | work = News24.com}}</ref> An unknown media source criticized Watson for being "hypocritical in taking up his forced selection" against Samoa, given his public opinions about White and Smit.<ref name=Age />

The nature of the relationship between Watson and his teammates for the test against Samoa can be gauged from reports that the senior Springboks "had refused to initiate him into the squad", saying that Yeye, Stofile, and Hoskins should do it instead.<ref name=Loses /><ref name=Boat />

As part of his forced selection Watson was included in the tour to Australia and New Zealand for the away leg of the [[Tri Nations (rugby union)|Tri-Nations]] series, as White rested many of his first-choice players. Watson withdrew from the tour pleading a rib injury which was estimated to need about 10 days to heal. But Watson turned out for Western Province in the Currie Cup on the same day as the first of the Tri-Nations matches. Convener of Springbok selectors Jooste expressed surprise at how quickly Watson had recovered. [[Andy Marinos]], SARU's manager of national teams, cleared Watson to play for his province, saying that uncertainty about the length of Watson's recovery time had prompted the national selectors to omit him. Watson had been assessed by the provincial team doctor and passed a fitness test.<ref name=Boat /> Watson was dropped from the national squad, and did not take part in the World Cup. Injured for most of the season, he hardly featured in the 2007 Currie Cup.<ref>{{cite news | first = Jon | last = Cardinelli | title = Double blow for WP. | date = 9 July 2007 | url = http://www.keo.co.za/2007/07/09/double-blow-for-wp-2/ | work = Keo.co.za | access-date = 13 May 2011 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20110719032205/http://www.keo.co.za/2007/07/09/double-blow-for-wp-2/ | archive-date = 19 July 2011 | url-status = dead }}</ref><ref>{{cite web | url = http://www.wprugby.com/article.asp?id=221116 | title = SARU clears Vodacom WP's Luke. | access-date = 13 May 2011 | date = 6 July 2007 | work = WP Rugby}}</ref>

After the non-selection controversy of 2006 and the politicised-selection controversy of 2007, Watson was firmly established in the media spotlight, and aspects of his behaviour now became subject to more media scrutiny than for other players.

===Stormers captaincy, 2007===
The coach of the Stormers team in 2007, [[Kobus van der Merwe]], appointed Watson as captain for their Super Rugby campaign.<ref name=Loses /> The relationship between coach and captain was not always straightforward. For example, Van der Merwe substituted Watson after 60 minutes of a Super 14 match in April 2007 while the Stormers were being heavily defeated by the [[Blue Bulls]]. Watson appeared confused while being substituted, and did not attend the post-match press conference. The following day Watson was still in the dark as to why he was substituted. Van der Merwe first said that he wanted to try a new combination as the match was already lost, but later told Watson that he wanted to rest him. According to some reporters the player and coach clashed in the dressing room after the match,<ref name=Loses /><ref name="autogenerated4">{{cite news | url = http://www.capeargus.co.za/?fArticleId=4119670 | title = Stormers boot out Luke Watson as Captain. | publisher = Cape Argus | date = 8 November 2007 | access-date = 19 May 2009 | url-status = dead | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20080609200339/http://www.capeargus.co.za/?fArticleId=4119670 | archive-date = 9 June 2008 | df = dmy}}</ref> but Watson denied that he and Van der Merwe had problems.<ref>{{cite web | first = Jon | last = Cardinelli | title = No clarity over sub issue. | date = 16 April 2007 | url = http://www.keo.co.za/2007/04/16/no-clarity-over-sub-issue/ | work = Keo.co.za | access-date = 13 May 2011 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20110928201719/http://www.keo.co.za/2007/04/16/no-clarity-over-sub-issue/ | archive-date = 28 September 2011 | url-status = dead }}</ref>

In December 2007 new Stormers coach [[Rassie Erasmus]] replaced Watson with Springbok backline veteran Jean de Villiers as captain of the Stormers. Watson retained his place in the Stormers' team.<ref name="Watson swap" /> Some commentators suggested that one reason why Watson was relieved of the captaincy was that his leadership skills had been criticized by various senior players.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.sarugby.com/news/News/article/sid=8105.html |title=De Villiers Stormers skipper? |access-date=13 May 2011 |date=14 November 2009 |work=SARugby.com |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090619090304/http://www.sarugby.com/news/News/article/sid%3D8105.html |archive-date=19 June 2009 }}</ref>

Earlier rumors in the press had suggested that Burger would replace Watson as captain for the 2008 Super 14 tournament.<ref name=Loses>{{cite news | author = Dale | title = Luke loses the captaincy. | date = 8 November 2007 | url = http://www.iol.co.za/sport/luke-loses-the-captaincy-1.580871 | work = Independent Online (Cape Town & Johannesburg) | access-date = 13 May 2011}}</ref>

Reportedly the original decision was revisited after Erasmus met with Luke's father, Dan Watson, to discuss "the role that he [Luke Watson] should play in the Stormers' side". Dan Watson allegedly said "that he had no problem with Luke not captaining the side, provided Schalk Burger did not have a higher profile" than Luke. Erasmus was said to be concerned that Burger, despite his star status, should not be treated differently from his teammates.<ref name="Watson swap">{{cite news | author = Dale | title = Did Schalk take offence after Watson swap? | date = 12 March 2008 | url = http://www.iol.co.za/sport/did-schalk-take-offence-after-watson-swap-1.586275 | work = Independent Online (Cape Town & Johannesburg) | access-date = 13 May 2011}}</ref> Previously Erasmus had opined that a good leader does not polarize opinion, and does not make waves or headlines.<ref>{{cite web | url = http://www.news24.com/Columnists/GuestColumn/Small-town-Stormers-20071213 | title = Small Town Stormers. | access-date = 12 May 2011 | date = 13 December 2007 | work = News24}}</ref>

Just hours after being officially relieved of the Stormers captaincy Watson breached the terms of the team's [[Adidas]] sponsorship contract by wearing rival [[Nike, Inc.|Nike]] logos at an official training session. The matter was dealt with internally.<ref>{{cite news | author = Dale | title = Watson in sponsor furore. | date = 13 December 2007 | url = http://www.iol.co.za/sport/watson-in-sponsor-furore-1.582567 | work = Independent Online (Cape Town & Johannesburg) | access-date = 13 May 2011}}</ref>

Despite his sacking as captain, Watson scored most tries (5) for the Stormers in the 2007 Super rugby season, only the second forward after Bobby Skinstad to achieve this accomplishment between 1998 and 2011.<ref name=StormersStats />

In September 2008 Watson was also replaced by De Villiers as captain of the Western Province side under coach [[Allister Coetzee]]. Watson had been appointed Western Province captain on 1 June 2006, and had occupied the position 33 times by 14 June 2009.<ref name="WPProfile">{{cite web | url = http://www.wprugby.com/article.asp?id=304041 | title = WP Rugby confirm Watson move to Bath. | access-date = 13 May 2011 | date = 14 June 2009 | work = WP Rugby | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20110927205814/http://www.wprugby.com/article.asp?id=304041 | archive-date = 27 September 2011 | url-status = dead }}</ref>

===Speech at Ubumbo rugby festival, 2008===
On 3 October 2008 Watson delivered a speech at the Ubumbo rugby festival at the University of Cape Town. He spoke about his family's political record, and described wearing the Springbok jersey as "a burden" and said he had to struggle "to keep myself from vomiting on it." Watson said that his Springbok teammates refused to associate with him after his forced inclusion in the team in 2007.<ref name=Transcript /> Although Watson gave no context to his comments, some have inferred that he was referring to the controversy over the retention of the [[South Africa national rugby union team#Crest, colours and jersey|Springbok emblem]] for national sports teams.

In a question and answer session after the speech Watson allegedly stated that he hated losing his place in the Bok team to an Afrikaner (Schalk Burger, a former IRB Player of the Year). He also allegedly quoted his father as saying that the rugby administration was "rotten to the core" and run by "Dutchmen." Afrikaners associate the term with pejorative attitudes towards them by British colonists and their descendants, connoting lack of intelligence and low breeding. No reference to Burger or to "Dutchmen" occur in the transcript of his speech.<ref name=Rich>{{cite news | first = Gavin | last = Rich | title = The Gospel according to Luke...or Cheeky? | date = 19 October 2008 | url = http://www.iol.co.za/sport/the-gospel-according-to-luke-or-cheeky-1.594796 | work = Independent Online (Cape Town & Johannesburg) | access-date = 13 May 2011}}</ref><ref>{{cite web | url = http://sport.iafrica.com/news/1223920.htm | title = Watson blasts Bok jersey. | access-date = 13 May 2011 | last = De Koning | first = Jan | date = 12 October 2008 | work = iafrica.com}}</ref>

Watson's words completely contradicted sentiments that he had expressed in his 2006 interview with ''SA Sports Illustrated'' magazine, when he had said: "It (the Springbok emblem) has the potential and it has the ability to become one of the most powerful emblems this world has seen. … It stands for equality. It stands for unity. It stands for a once divided nation that now stands together. It stands for everything this world doesn't have, and everything this world wants". Watson added that "Playing for the Boks would be a great honour" and that "Obviously I would love to play for the Springboks".<ref name=Rich />

Rugby journalist Gavin Rich speculated that Watson's change of heart between 2006 and 2008 was due to his experiences as "the unwanted Player No 46". Rich felt that Watson was fighting a battle on behalf of others, and expressed "sorrow that we may never get to see the real Luke Watson, only the one that has been created in his father's image".<ref name=Rich />

Journalist Andrew Austin summed up the reactions to the speech by noting how in general terms Watson's story reveals ongoing divides between Afrikaans- and English-speaking South Africans, as well as between those designated "whites" and "blacks".<ref>{{cite web | url = http://sport.iafrica.com/news/1223920.htm | title = Maybe it's because he's an Engelsman. | access-date = 13 May 2011 | last = Austin | first = Andrew | date = 17 October 2008 | work = The New Zealand Herald}}</ref>

The ANC's parliamentary sports committee chair, Butana Khompela, on 9 October seized on the event to demand the replacement of the Springbok.<ref name=Kompela>{{cite news | first = Angela | last = Quintal | title = 'I also want to vomit on Bok jersey'. | date = 16 October 2008 | url = http://www.iol.co.za/sport/i-also-want-to-vomit-on-bok-jersey-1.425161 | work = Independent Online (Cape Town & Johannesburg) | access-date = 13 May 2011}}</ref><ref>{{cite news | first = Sharleen | last = Packree | author2 = Sapa | title = Butana Khompela in new bid to kill the Bok. | date = 9 October 2008 | url = http://www.witness.co.za/index.php?showcontent&global%5B_id%5D=14630 | work = The Witness (Pietermaritzburg) | access-date = 13 May 2011}}</ref>

Soon after the contents of the speech was made public the [[Pro-Afrikaans Action Group]] condemned Watson's comments as hate-speech, while the civil rights group AfriForum considered pressing charges against him on the same grounds.<ref>{{cite news | first = Murray | last = Williams | title = Watson faces action by civil rights group. | date = 13 October 2008 | url = http://www.iol.co.za/sport/watson-faces-action-by-civil-rights-group-1.451349 | work = Independent Online (Cape Town & Johannesburg) | access-date = 13 May 2011}}</ref><ref>{{cite web | url = http://sport.iafrica.com/news/1313940.htm | title = Luke not worth the trouble | publisher = Sport.iafrica.com | access-date = 19 May 2009}}</ref><ref>{{cite news | title = Storm erupts around Luke Watson. | date = 13 October 2008 | url = https://mg.co.za/article/2008-10-13-storm-erupts-around-luke-watson | work = The Mail & Guardian (Johannesburg) | access-date = 13 May 2011}}</ref>

A number of senior players reportedly threatened to boycott the 2008 end of year tour to England, Wales and Scotland if Watson was included in the squad.<ref>{{cite web | url = http://sport.iafrica.com/news/204400.html | title = It's Watson or us – Boks. | access-date = 13 May 2011 | date = 19 October 2008 | work = iAfrica.com}}</ref><ref>{{cite news | first = Clinton | last = Van der Berg | title = Elementary – they can't pick Watson. | date = 19 October 2008 | url = http://www.timeslive.co.za/sundaytimes/article80496.ece | work = Times Live (Johannesburg) | access-date = 13 May 2011}}</ref> But Andy Marinos, then acting managing director of SARU, dismissed the reports as "speculation" and said that they were "utterly groundless".<ref>{{cite news | title = Bok boycott reports 'completely untrue'. | date = 20 October 2008 | url = https://mg.co.za/article/2008-10-20-bok-boycott-reports-completely-untrue | work = The Mail & Guardian (Johannesburg) | access-date = 13 May 2011}}</ref>

When Watson made his first playing appearance after the incident, in a friendly warm-up match against English club [[Saracens F.C.|Saracens]] at [[Newlands Stadium|Newlands]] in January 2009, he was repeatedly booed by his home crowd.<ref>{{cite news | title = Stormers run in six tries to victory. | date = 25 January 2009 | url = http://www.iol.co.za/sport/stormers-run-in-six-tries-to-victory-1.597670 | work = Independent Online (Cape Town & Johannesburg) | access-date = 13 May 2011}}</ref> This treatment continued for at least three games into the Super 14 tournament and reached a climax in the Stormers fixture against the Blue Bulls at Loftus Versfeld in [[Pretoria]].<ref>{{cite web | url = http://www.2oceansvibe.com/2009/03/11/luke-watson-at-loftus | title = Luke Watson at Loftus. | access-date = 13 May 2011 | last = Rotherham | first = Seth | date = 11 March 2009 | work = 2oceansvibe.com}}</ref> Watson's detractors branded him "Luke the Puke" on various social media sites on the internet.<ref>{{cite web | url = http://www.pakiscorner.com/2008/10/luke-puke-watson.html | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20081205064907/http://www.pakiscorner.com/2008/10/luke-puke-watson.html | archive-date = 5 December 2008 | title = Luke "The Puke" Watson | access-date = 13 May 2011 | date = 11 March 2009 | work = PakisCorner.com|url-status=usurped}}</ref><ref>{{cite web | url = http://www.facebook.com/group.php?gid=46919366887 | title = Everybody against Luke "Puke" Watson. | access-date = 13 May 2011 | date = 5 February 2009 | work = Sign Up: Everybody against Luke "Puke" Watson}}</ref>

The head of SARU's legal affairs department, Christo Ferreira, commented in public media that Watson could be charged of breach of SARU's code of conduct and fined, suspended or warned if found guilty. SARU appointed lawyer Dekker Govender to conduct a preliminary investigation into the incident. On 14 October 2008 the Ubombo Rugby wrote in a letter to Govender that Watson had not said anything that was racist or defamatory.<ref name=Kompela /> Watson eventually appeared before a disciplinary hearing, which was abandoned on a technical legal matter, and SARU decided to drop the matter entirely.<ref>{{cite news | title = Watson to face disciplinary hearing. | date = 23 October 2008 | url = http://www.iol.co.za/sport/watson-to-face-disciplinary-hearing-1.594971?ot=inmsa.ArticlePrintPageLayout.ot | work = Independent Online (Cape Town & Johannesburg) | access-date = 13 May 2011}}</ref><ref>{{cite web | url = http://www.keo.co.za/2008/10/29/watson-saga-nears-an-end/ | title = Watson saga nears an end | access-date = 13 May 2011 | last = Cardinelli | first = Jon | date = 5 February 2009 | work = Keo.co.za | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20090617194759/http://www.keo.co.za/2008/10/29/watson-saga-nears-an-end/ | archive-date = 17 June 2009 | url-status = dead }}</ref><ref>{{cite web | url = http://www.supersport.com/rugby/article.aspx?id=277680&headline=Luke%20Watson%20hearing%20falls%20flat | title = Luke Watson hearing falls flat. | access-date = 13 May 2011 | last = Retief | first = Dan | date = 11 November 2008 | work = SuperSport.com}}</ref><ref>{{cite news | title = Charges against Watson dismissed. | date = 11 October 2008 | url = https://mg.co.za/article/2008-11-11-charges-against-watson-dismissed | work = The Mail & Guardian (Johannesburg) | access-date = 13 May 2011}}</ref>

==Later senior career==

===Further international selection, 2008–09===

Following the appointment in January 2008 of Peter de Villiers as the new coach of the Springbok rugby team, Watson was selected for nine more Test caps. Critics continued to question his performance at test level throughout the year with comments that his performances were "ordinary"<ref name="Jean the jewel of Loftus.">{{cite web | url = http://www.keo.co.za/2008/06/14/jean-the-jewel-of-loftus/ | title = Jean the jewel of Loftus. | work = Keo.co.za | date = 14 May 2008 | last = Cardinelli | first = Jon | access-date = 15 June 2008 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20080618124013/http://www.keo.co.za/2008/06/14/jean-the-jewel-of-loftus/ | archive-date = 18 June 2008 | url-status = dead }}</ref><ref name="Frans, Bismarck best of rudderless Boks.">{{cite web | url = http://www.keo.co.za/2008/06/21/frans-bismarck-best-of-rudderless-boks | title = Frans, Bismarck best of rudderless Boks. | work = Keo.co.za | date = 21 May 2008 | last = Vrede | first = Ryan | access-date = 21 June 2008 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20080626065244/http://www.keo.co.za/2008/06/21/frans-bismarck-best-of-rudderless-boks/ | archive-date = 26 June 2008 | url-status = dead }}</ref> and "anonymous".<ref name="Jean the beacon of light">{{cite web | url = http://www.keo.co.za/2008/07/05/jean-the-beacon-of-light/ | title = Jean the beacon of light | publisher = Keo.co.za | date = 5 July 2008 | access-date = 19 May 2009 | last = Cardinelli | first = Jon | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20090617194749/http://www.keo.co.za/2008/07/05/jean-the-beacon-of-light/ | archive-date = 17 June 2009 | url-status = dead }}</ref><ref name="What's wrong with our breakdowns?">{{cite web|url=http://www.sarugby.com/news/News/article/sid=9844.html |title=What's wrong with our breakdowns? |publisher=Sarugby.com |date=22 August 2009 |access-date=19 May 2009 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090619084526/http://www.sarugby.com/news/News/article/sid%3D9844.html |archive-date=19 June 2009 }}</ref> Eventually De Villiers relegated Watson to a substitute role, and reverted instead to the flankers whom Jake White had been criticised for preferring to Watson, namely Schalk Burger and [[Juan Smith]]. Even as a substitute Watson made no impact, and a number of journalists criticized him for not living up to expectations on the field.<ref name="Not so super-subs.">{{cite web | url = http://www.keo.co.za/2008/07/05/not-so-super-subs/ | title = Not so super-subs. | publisher = Keo.co.za | date = 5 July 2008 | access-date = 19 May 2009 | last = Grant | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20090617192635/http://www.keo.co.za/2008/07/05/not-so-super-subs/ | archive-date = 17 June 2009 | url-status = dead }}</ref><ref name="Defeat exposes De Villiers.">{{cite web | url = http://www.keo.co.za/2008/07/06/defeat-exposes-de-villiers | title = Defeat exposes De Villiers. | work = Keo.co.za | date = 6 July 2008 | last = Borchardt | first = Simon | access-date = 6 July 2008 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20080709040420/http://www.keo.co.za/2008/07/06/defeat-exposes-de-villiers/ | archive-date = 9 July 2008 | url-status = dead }}</ref><ref name="It's the real McCaw.">{{cite news | url = http://www.iol.co.za/sport/it-s-the-real-mccaw-1.592598 | title = It's the real McCaw. | work = Independent Online (Cape Town & Johannesburg) | date = 12 August 2008 | access-date = 13 May 2011 | last = Rich | first = Gavin}}</ref><ref name="ABs defence shuts out Springboks.">{{cite news | url = http://www.stuff.co.nz/sport/584478 | title = ABs defence shuts out Springboks. | work = Stuff.co.nz | date = 17 August 2008 | access-date = 13 May 2011}}</ref><ref name="Boks must get more physical.">{{cite news | url = http://www.iol.co.za/sport/boks-must-get-more-physical-1.592601 | title = Boks must get more physical. | work = Independent Online (Cape Town & Johannesburg) | date = 17 August 2008 | access-date = 13 May 2011 | last = Rich | first = Gavin}}</ref><ref name="Frustration.">{{cite web|url=http://www.sarugby.com/news/News/article/sid=9808.html |title=Frustration. |date=12 August 2008 |access-date=13 May 2011 |last=Gardener |first=John |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080821071105/http://www.sarugby.com/news/News/article/sid%3D9808.html |archive-date=21 August 2008 }}</ref><ref name="Jantjes, Nokwe recalled for Boks.">{{cite news | url = http://www.thetimes.co.za/Sport/Article.aspx?id=825380 | title = Jantjes, Nokwe recalled for Boks. | publisher = Times Live (Johannesburg) | date = 19 August 2008 | access-date = 19 May 2009 | last = Sapa | url-status = dead | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20090618040230/http://www.thetimes.co.za/Sport/Article.aspx?id=825380 | archive-date = 18 June 2009}}</ref><ref name="Boks forced to scale down.">{{cite web | url = http://sport.iafrica.com/news/1103960.htm | title = Boks forced to scale down. | publisher = iAfrica.com | access-date = 19 May 2009}}</ref><ref name="Bok player ratings.">{{cite web | url = http://sport.iafrica.com/features/1102660.htm | title = Bok player ratings. | publisher = iAfrica.com | date = 24 August 2008 | access-date = 19 May 2009}}</ref><ref name="Opportunity knocks for Cobus and Heinke.">{{cite web | url = http://www.supersport.com/rugby/article.aspx?id=273201&headline=Opportunity%20knocks%20for%20Cobus%20and%20Heinke | title = Opportunity knocks for Cobus and Heinke. | work = SuperSport.com | date = 8 October 2008 | access-date = 13 May 2011 | last = Rich | first = Gavin}}</ref>
Two said, "Like a dirty smell, he has tended to hang around in this year's [TriNations] tournament."<ref name="Bok Tri-Nations ratings.">{{cite web | url = http://www.sport24.co.za/Rugby/TriNations/Bok-Tri-Nations-ratings-20080905 | title = Bok Tri-Nations ratings. | work = News24 | date = 5 September 2008 | access-date = 13 May 2011 | last = Lanning | first = Tank | author2 = Rob Houwing}}</ref>

As in 2007, Watson's teammates were less than flattering in their assessment of his 2008 contributions to the national team. John Smit, Watson's Springbok captain, said in his autobiography (''The Captain in the Cauldron'') that Watson was referred to as the " ' "cancer" of the team' " and was the primary reason for the Springboks' poor performances in the 2008 TriNations tournament.<ref name="Bok skipper pulls no punches.">{{cite news | url = http://www.iol.co.za/sport/bok-skipper-pulls-no-punches-1.609111 | title = Bok skipper pulls no punches. | work = Independent Online (Cape Town & Johannesburg | date = 13 November 2009 | access-date = 13 May 2011 | last = Canning | first = David}}</ref><ref name="John Smit: a man of stature.">{{cite news | url = http://www.timesonline.co.uk/tol/sport/rugby_union/article6917305.ece | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20110814125914/http://www.timesonline.co.uk/tol/sport/rugby_union/article6917305.ece | url-status = dead | archive-date = 14 August 2011 | title = John Smit: a man of stature. | publisher = The Times (London) | date = 15 November 2009 | access-date = 11 May 2010 | last = Walsh | first = David}}</ref> Springbok vice-captain Victor Matfield said that during his stand-in captaincy in 2008 "I did my best to involve Luke in all the activities". He had invited Watson to contribute but Watson "didn't want to". Matfield also stated, "It is untrue that the other players didn't try to accept him. It is rather a case of Luke never wanting to be part of the Springbok set-up." Matfield revealed that many players had complained about Watson.<ref name="Luke controversy saddens Putt.">{{cite news | url = http://www.sport24.co.za/Rugby/Luke-controversy-saddens-Putt-20081015 | title = Luke controversy saddens Putt. | work = News24 | date = 15 October 2008 | access-date = 13 May 2011}}</ref><ref name="End of road for Watson?">{{cite web | url = http://www.sport24.co.za/Rugby/End-of-road-for-Watson-20081012 | title = End of road for Watson? | work = News24 | date = 13 August 2008 | access-date = 13 May 2011}}</ref><ref name="Luke's behaviour – a reporter's perspective.">{{cite news | url = http://www.iol.co.za/sport/luke-s-behaviour-a-reporter-s-perspective-1.594757 | title = Luke's behaviour – a reporter's perspective. | work = Independent Online (Cape Town & Johannesburg) | date = 21 October 2008 | access-date = 13 May 2011 | last = Van der Westhuyzen | first = Jacques}}</ref>

Watson dismissed the claims after the publication of Smit's autobiography in 2009, saying that it was not possible for one player to so badly affect a 40-member squad. While acknowledging that Smit had done " 'incredibly well with South Africa' " he concluded that Smit's statements were " 'a cop-out' ".<ref name="Watson answers Smit's claims.">{{cite web | url = http://www.sport24.co.za/Rugby/Watson-answers-Smits-claims-20091230 | title = Watson answers Smit's claims. | work = News24) | date = 13 December 2009 | access-date = 13 May 2011}}</ref>

On 24 October 2008, the day before the announcement of the Bok squad to tour Europe, Watson declared himself unavailable for selection. His form at the time was considered so poor that he stood little chance of making the squad on merit.<ref name="Watson quits Boks.">{{cite web | url = http://www.keo.co.za/2008/10/25/watson-withdraws// | title = Watson quits Boks. | work = Keo.co.za | date = 25 October 2008 | access-date = 13 May 2011 | last = Cardinelli | first = Jon}}</ref>

===Super Rugby season, 2009===

Watson had a better season in the 2009 Super 14, and speculation arose again that he might be selected to face the [[British and Irish Lions]]. Former Springbok captain Corné Krige said in April 2009 that Watson was playing "unbelievable rugby" and that he would pick him on form as " 'among the best fetchers in the Super 14' ", but not at eighthman.<ref name="Krige says no to Luke.">{{cite web | url = http://www.sport24.co.za/Rugby/Krige-says-no-to-Luke-20090406 | title = Krige says no to Luke. | work = News24 | date = 6 April 2006 | access-date = 13 May 2011 | last = Nell | first = Stephen}}</ref>

When a Springbok squad was named in May 2009 to face a Namibian team in a warm-up for the Lions tour, Watson was omitted. According to then-Springbok coach De Villiers, Watson was not selected because he was neither the best nor the second best player in his position (8th Man).<ref name="Why Rory, Luke weren't picked.">{{cite web | url = http://www.sport24.co.za/Rugby/Why-Rory-Luke-werent-picked-20090519 | title = Why Rory, Luke weren't picked. | publisher = 24.com | work = sport24 | date = 20 May 2009 | access-date = 12 May 2011 | last = Jordaan | first = Pieter}}</ref> [[Stephen Jones (writer)|Stephen Jones]], a rugby correspondent for [[The Times]] who was following the Lions tour, described Watson as "nothing more than a Currie Cup player" and as a "second or third choice" for a Guinness Premiership club. Jones also described father Cheeky Watson as "just another version of a pushy parent".<ref name="Jones">{{cite news | url = http://www.timesonline.co.uk/tol/sport/rugby_union/article6487703.ece | title = The Rolling Maul stardom beckons Ugo Monye and Tommy Bowe | work = The Times | date = 12 June 2009 | access-date = 11 May 2010 | last = Jones | first = Stephen | location = London}}{{dead link|date=September 2024|bot=medic}}{{cbignore|bot=medic}}</ref>

Watson shone in the 2009 Currie Cup in the absence of the Springboks, and won the "Currie Cup Player of the Year" award.<ref name="Influential Du Preez crowned SA Rugby’s player of the year.">{{cite news | url = http://www.businessday.co.za/articles/Content.aspx?id=85846 | title = Influential Du Preez crowned SA Rugby's player of the year. | work = Business Day (Johannesbug) | date = 3 November 2009 | access-date = 12 May 2011 | last = Isaacs | first = Zena}}</ref>

===Bath Rugby career, 2009–11===
Watson left South Africa to join Bath Rugby in November 2009, when the club was lying 11th of the 12 teams in the [[Guinness Premiership]] table<ref name="Luke Watson turns away from South Africa ambitions to join Bath.">{{cite news | url = http://www.timesonline.co.uk/tol/sport/rugby_union/article6903601.ece | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20110814130022/http://www.timesonline.co.uk/tol/sport/rugby_union/article6903601.ece | url-status = dead | archive-date = 14 August 2011 | title = Luke Watson turns away from South Africa ambitions to join Bath. | work = The Times (London) | date = 5 November 2009 | access-date = 13 May 2011 | last = Hopkins | first = John}}</ref> after losing key players to drug controversy during the June 2009 off-season.<ref name="High-profile Bath trio quit club.">{{cite news | url = http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/rugby_union/my_club/bath/8055662.stm | title = High-profile Bath trio quit club. | publisher = BBC | date = 2 June 2009 | access-date = 5 May 2011}}</ref> Coming off the bench on his debut for Bath in November 2009, Watson scored a decisive try against the [[Ospreys (rugby union)|Ospreys]].<ref name="Hopkins">{{Cite web|url=https://www.planetrugby.com/winning-bath-debut-for-watson/|title = Winning Bath debut for Watson|date = 14 November 2009}}</ref>

In contrast to Jones' predictions, Watson became one of the outstanding players of the 2009–10 Guinness Premiership. During December 2009 he won the Man of the Match award for his performance against [[Edinburgh]].<ref name="Hopkins" /> Bath ended 4th in the 2009–10 Premiership.<ref name="Aviva">{{cite web | url = http://www.premiershiprugby.com/premiership/rugby/table.php?includeref=14519&season=2009-10 | title = Aviva Premiership League Table, 2009–10. | publisher = Premiershiprugby.com | access-date = 7 May 2011 | year = 2011}}</ref> Despite this, Jones refused to retract his earlier statement, perhaps due to the dislike he formed for Watson on the Lions Tour.<ref name=Jones />

At the start of the 2010–11 season Watson earned the captaincy of his premiership club, replacing fellow South African [[Michael Claassens]] who had declined to occupy the position for a second season.<ref name=BBC /> He suffered a neck injury that required him to spend the night in hospital,<ref name="Bath Rugby skipper Luke Watson on the mend after 'whiplash' injury.">{{cite news | url = http://www.thisisbath.co.uk/sport/text/Bath-Rugby-skipper-Luke-Watson-mend-whiplash-injury/article-2870121-detail/article.html | title = Bath Rugby skipper Luke Watson on the mend after 'whiplash' injury. | date = 10 November 2010 | access-date = 5 May 2011 | last = Bradshaw | first = Tom | newspaper = The Bath Chronicle}}</ref> while a "ridiculously niggly foot injury" sustained against Harlequins in October 2010 sidelined Watson for two months. Despite playing with some discomfort, Watson returned to premiership rugby when he led his side to a win against [[London Irish]] on 1 January 2011.<ref name="Injury still troubling Bath Rugby skipper Watson ahead of Leeds clash.">{{cite web | url = http://www.thisisbath.co.uk/news/Injury-troubling-Watson/article-3069413-detail/article.html | title = Injury still troubling Bath Rugby skipper Watson ahead of Leeds clash. | publisher = thisisbath.co.uk | date = 6 January 2011 | access-date = 5 May 2011}}</ref> Watson was nominated for the 2011 [[Gatorade Performance of the Season Award]] for his contribution to Bath's game against [[Leicester Tigers]] on 23 October 2010.<ref name="Aviva Premiership Rugby Awards nominations announced.">{{cite web | url = http://www.premiershiprugby.com/premiership/news/27449.php | title = Aviva Premiership Rugby Awards nominations announced. | date = 27 April 2011 | access-date = 14 May 2011}}</ref> By December 2010 Watson had played 29 games in all and scored three tries for Bath.<ref name=BBC />

Facing none of the controversy that surrounded him in South Africa, Watson's play was hailed as "inspirational" by Bath's head coach, [[Steve Meehan]]. Meehan also noted Watson's popularity off the field.<ref name="BBC">{{cite news | url = http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/rugby_union/my_club/bath/9261049.stm | title = Bath captain Luke Watson opts for South Africa switch. | publisher = BBC | date = 6 December 2010 | access-date = 5 May 2011}}</ref>

===Eastern Province Kings, 2011–===

Watson announced in December 2010 that he would leave Bath Rugby to join the {{Rut|Eastern Province Kings}}, the South African provincial side based in Watson's former home town, [[Port Elizabeth]] and the team where he started his career in 2002 when they were known as the {{Rut|Mighty Elephants}}. The Kings won the [[2010 Currie Cup First Division]] just before Watson signed<ref name="Hardest">{{cite web | url = http://www.thisisbath.co.uk/news/Decision-hardest-life-8211-Watson/article-2986138-detail/article.html | title = Luke Watson: "Decision to leave Bath Rugby was the hardest of my life". | work = ThisIsBath.co.uk | date = 9 December 2010 | access-date = 13 May 2011 | last = Bradshaw | first = Tom}}</ref> and were the base union of the [[Southern Kings]], a [[Super Rugby]] franchise that would represent South Africa as the South African Kings in the [[IRB Nations Cup]] in [[Romania]] in June 2011<ref name="Highbury">{{cite web | url = http://sportindustry.co.za/news/view/3088/watson-takes-hsm-into-player-management | title = Watson takes Highbury into player management. | work = Sport Industry Group South Africa | date = 18 May 2011 | access-date = 29 May 2011}}</ref> and play Super Rugby in [[2013 Super Rugby season|2013]]. He said that the "decision to leave Bath Rugby was the hardest of my life",<ref name=Hardest /> but dismissed claims that his move was influenced by his father [[Cheeky Watson|Cheeky]]'s position as president of the Eastern Province Rugby Union.<ref name="Province aim to keep their stars.">{{cite news | url = http://www.rugbyrugby.com/news/story_17109205402.php | title = Province aim to keep their stars. | publisher = RugbyRugby.com | date = 17 January 2009 | access-date = 17 January 2009 | author = SAPA | archive-url = https://archive.today/20120909052110/http://www.rugbyrugby.com/news/story_17109205402.php | archive-date = 9 September 2012 | url-status = dead }}</ref> Instead, he credited Southern Kings' coach [[Alan Solomons]] (assistant Springbok coach under Mallett) for his decision.<ref name="StormersStats">{{cite web | url = http://www.supersport.com/rugby/super-rugby/dhl-stormers | title = Stormers – Statistics (as at 30/5/2011). | work = SuperSport.com | date = 30 May 2011 | access-date = 30 May 2011}}</ref><ref name=QALuke />

Watson's move coincided with his signing in May 2011 as the first client of Shane Keohane's new sports management agency, which is part of Highbury Safika Media. Highbury's [[Chief Operating Officer]] at the time was Mark Keohane and the company publishes ''SA Rugby'' magazine.<ref name=Highbury /><ref name="QALuke">{{cite news | url = http://www.sport24.co.za/Rugby/QA-with-Luke-Watson-20110519 | title = Q&A with Luke Watson. | work = Sport24.com | date = 19 May 2011 | access-date = 30 May 2011 | last = Lanning | first = Tank}}</ref>

On the playing field, his first appearances for the side came during the [[2011 IRB Nations Cup]], as the team – playing as the South African Kings – won all three matches to win the competition. Watson played in their 31–17 victory over {{nrut|Georgia}}<ref name="IRB Nations Cup 2011, Match 2">{{cite web | url = http://www.worldrugby.org/match/12167 | title = IRB Nations Cup 2011, Match 2 | publisher = World Rugby | date = 10 June 2011 | access-date = 11 December 2014}}</ref> and their 27–23 victory over {{nrut|Romania}}.<ref name="IRB Nations Cup 2011, Match 5">{{cite web | url = http://www.worldrugby.org/match/12170 | title = IRB Nations Cup 2011, Match 5 | publisher = World Rugby | date = 10 June 2011 | access-date = 11 December 2014}}</ref> In domestic action, he started in nine of the {{Rut|Eastern Province Kings}}' matches during the [[2011 Currie Cup First Division]] season, scoring seven tries – the joint-highest by a forward in the competition<ref name="SA Rugby Try Scorers – 2011 ABSA Currie Cup First Div">{{SA Rugby Try Scorers | id=810 | comp=2011 ABSA Currie Cup First Div | date=5 May 2016}}</ref> – including two tries in their match against the {{Rut|Border Bulldogs}}<ref name="Eastern Province Kings 51-36 Border Bulldogs">{{SA Rugby Match Centre | id=20214 | homeid=8549 | awayid=8553 | leagueid=810 | hometeam=Eastern Province Kings | homescore=51 | awayscore=36 | awayteam=Border Bulldogs | matchdate=2 September 2011 | date=15 March 2016}}</ref> as the Kings finished second on the log and losing 43–12 to table-toppers {{Rut|Boland Cavaliers}} in the final.<ref name="Regent Boland Cavaliers 43-12 Eastern Province Kings">{{SA Rugby Match Centre | id=102581 | homeid=8554 | awayid=8549 | leagueid=810 | hometeam=Regent Boland Cavaliers | homescore=43 | awayscore=12 | awayteam=Eastern Province Kings | matchdate=14 October 2011 | date=15 March 2016}}</ref> Watson was available for the title run-in, however, sustaining a knock to the head in training prior to their semi-final match against the {{Rut|Falcons}}, ruling him out of the semi-finals and final with concussion.<ref name="Kings in die finals; Pak Boland-Kavaliers tuis">{{cite web | url = http://152.111.1.87/argief/berigte/dieburger/2011/10/11/KS/24/oosKings1.html | title = Kings in die finals; Pak Boland-Kavaliers tuis | publisher = Die Burger | date = 11 October 2011 | access-date = 11 December 2014 | language = af | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20141211141158/http://152.111.1.87/argief/berigte/dieburger/2011/10/11/KS/24/oosKings1.html | archive-date = 11 December 2014 | url-status = dead }}</ref>

He sustained a shoulder injury in the build-up to the 2012 season<ref name="Groot druk op kings; Veral ná Watson hom onttrek">{{cite web | url = http://152.111.1.87/argief/berigte/dieburger/2012/02/10/KS/24/oosGame.html | title = Groot druk op kings; Veral ná Watson hom onttrek | publisher = Die Burger | date = 10 February 2012 | access-date = 11 December 2014 | language = af | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20141211135109/http://152.111.1.87/argief/berigte/dieburger/2012/02/10/KS/24/oosGame.html | archive-date = 11 December 2014 | url-status = dead }}</ref> which ruled him out of the entire [[2012 Vodacom Cup]] competition. He returned to action in the [[2012 Currie Cup First Division]] in July 2012. Despite being restricted to just seven starts, Watson scored 13 tries during the Kings' campaign.<ref name="SA Rugby Try Scorers – 2012 ABSA Currie Cup First Div">{{SA Rugby Try Scorers | id=1241 | comp=2012 ABSA Currie Cup First Div | date=5 May 2016}}</ref> He scored hat-tricks in their matches against the {{Rut|Falcons}}<ref name="Eastern Province Kings 45-24 Valke">{{SA Rugby Match Centre | id=105391 | homeid=11761 | awayid=11791 | leagueid=1241 | hometeam=Eastern Province Kings | homescore=45 | awayscore=24 | awayteam=Valke | matchdate=31 August 2012 | date=15 March 2016}}</ref> and the {{Rut|Griffons}}<ref name="Eastern Province Kings 60-19 Griffons">{{SA Rugby Match Centre | id=105481 | homeid=11761 | awayid=11801 | leagueid=1241 | hometeam=Eastern Province Kings | homescore=60 | awayscore=19 | awayteam=Griffons | matchdate=14 September 2012 | date=15 March 2016}}</ref> and two tries in each of their matches against the {{Rut|Border Bulldogs}},<ref name="Eastern Province Kings 56-5 Border Bulldogs">{{SA Rugby Match Centre | id=105161 | homeid=11761 | awayid=11751 | leagueid=1241 | hometeam=Eastern Province Kings | homescore=56 | awayscore=5 | awayteam=Border Bulldogs | matchdate=20 July 2012 | date=15 March 2016}}</ref> {{Rut|Boland Cavaliers}}<ref name="Eastern Province Kings 57-19 Regent Boland Kavaliers">{{SA Rugby Match Centre | id=105301 | homeid=11761 | awayid=11781 | leagueid=1241 | hometeam=Eastern Province Kings | homescore=57 | awayscore=19 | awayteam=Regent Boland Kavaliers | matchdate=17 August 2012 | date=15 March 2016}}</ref> and the {{Rut|Pumas}}.<ref name="Eastern Province Kings 26-26 Ford Pumas">{{SA Rugby Match Centre | id=105491 | homeid=11761 | awayid=11741 | leagueid=1241 | hometeam=Eastern Province Kings | homescore=26 | awayscore=26 | awayteam=Ford Pumas | matchdate=21 September 2012 | date=15 March 2016}}</ref> He missed three rounds of the competition with a rib injury<ref name="Dis 200 vir Engels; Speler het al 199 groot wedstryde op kerfstok">{{cite web | url = http://152.111.1.87/argief/berigte/dieburger/2012/07/25/KS/21/spt-Opkonings.html | title = Dis 200 vir Engels; Speler het al 199 groot wedstryde op kerfstok | publisher = Die Burger | date = 25 July 2012 | access-date = 11 December 2014 | language = af | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20141211141033/http://152.111.1.87/argief/berigte/dieburger/2012/07/25/KS/21/spt-Opkonings.html | archive-date = 11 December 2014 | url-status = dead }}</ref> and suffered a broken ankle in their semi-final match against the {{Rut|Leopards}}.<ref name="Kings sal cope – Alan; Luke sien 'n spesialis">{{cite web | url = http://152.111.1.87/argief/berigte/dieburger/2012/10/10/KS/23/spt-cheetahs-OP.html | title = Kings sal cope – Alan; Luke sien 'n spesialis | publisher = Die Son | date = 10 October 2012 | access-date = 11 December 2014 | language = af | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20141211135647/http://152.111.1.87/argief/berigte/dieburger/2012/10/10/KS/23/spt-cheetahs-OP.html | archive-date = 11 December 2014 | url-status = dead }}</ref> Despite his absence, the Kings won the final of the competition, beating the {{Rut|Pumas}} 26–25 in [[Port Elizabeth]],<ref name="Eastern Province Kings 26-25 Ford Pumas">{{SA Rugby Match Centre | id=105591 | homeid=11761 | awayid=11741 | leagueid=1241 | hometeam=Eastern Province Kings | homescore=26 | awayscore=25 | awayteam=Ford Pumas | matchdate=13 October 2012 | date=15 March 2016}}</ref> but failed to gain promotion to the Premier Division, losing to the {{Rut|Free State Cheetahs}} in a two-legged promotion/relegation play-off.

Watson was named captain of the {{Rut|Southern Kings}} [[Super Rugby]] squad for their inaugural season in the competition in [[2013 Super Rugby season|2013]].<ref name="Luke Watson to skipper Kings">{{cite web | url = http://www.sport24.co.za/Rugby/Luke-Watson-to-skipper-Kings-20120920 | title = Luke Watson to skipper Kings | work = Sport24 | date = 20 September 2013 | access-date = 25 June 2013}}</ref> He played in their first ever game – a 22–10 victory over the {{Rut|Force}} in [[Port Elizabeth]]<ref name="Southern Kings 22-10 Force">{{SA Rugby Match Centre | id=113661 | homeid=15231 | awayid=15111 | leagueid=1491 | hometeam=Southern Kings | homescore=22 | awayscore=10 | awayteam=Force | matchdate=23 February 2013 | date=15 March 2016}}</ref> – but suffered a throat injury in the 32nd minute, was substituted off and subsequently missed their next six matches. He returned to the starting line-up for the home match against the {{Rut|Bulls}},<ref name="Southern Kings 0-34 Bulls">{{SA Rugby Match Centre | id=114181 | homeid=15231 | awayid=15161 | leagueid=1491 | hometeam=Southern Kings | homescore=0 | awayscore=34 | awayteam=Bulls | matchdate=20 April 2013 | date=15 March 2016}}</ref> but looked unfit and had a poor game.<ref name="Kings to muscle up">{{cite web | url = http://www.sarugbymag.co.za/blog/details/kings-to-muscle-up | title = Kings to muscle up | work = [[SA Rugby Magazine]] | date = 25 April 2013 | access-date = 25 June 2013}}</ref> He started the next two matches against the {{Rut|Cheetahs}}<ref name="Toyota Cheetahs 26-12 Southern Kings">{{SA Rugby Match Centre | id=114241 | homeid=15211 | awayid=15231 | leagueid=1491 | hometeam=Toyota Cheetahs | homescore=26 | awayscore=12 | awayteam=Southern Kings | matchdate=27 April 2013 | date=15 March 2016}}</ref> and the {{Rut|Waratahs}}<ref name="Southern Kings 10-72 Waratahs">{{SA Rugby Match Centre | id=114301 | homeid=15231 | awayid=15201 | leagueid=1491 | hometeam=Southern Kings | homescore=10 | awayscore=72 | awayteam=Waratahs | matchdate=4 May 2013 | date=15 March 2016}}</ref> from the substitutes' bench before returning to the starting line-up for the matches against the {{Rut|Highlanders}} – where he scored two tries in a 34–27 victory<ref name="Southern Kings 34-27 Highlanders">{{SA Rugby Match Centre | id=114381 | homeid=15231 | awayid=15141 | leagueid=1491 | hometeam=Southern Kings | homescore=34 | awayscore=27 | awayteam=Highlanders | matchdate=11 May 2013 | date=15 March 2016}}</ref> – and the {{Rut|Cheetahs}}.<ref name="Southern Kings 22-34 Toyota Cheetahs">{{SA Rugby Match Centre | id=114511 | homeid=15231 | awayid=15211 | leagueid=1491 | hometeam=Southern Kings | homescore=22 | awayscore=34 | awayteam=Toyota Cheetahs | matchdate=25 May 2013 | date=15 March 2016}}</ref> He was ruled out of the {{Rut|Stormers}} match with flu<ref name="Watson out of Stormers clash">{{cite web | url = http://www.sport24.co.za/Rugby/Super15/Watson-out-of-Stormers-clash-20130530 | title = Watson out of Stormers clash | work = Sport24 | date = 30 May 2013 | access-date = 25 June 2013}}</ref> and then suffered an ankle fracture that ruled him out of the remainder of the season.<ref name="Watson out for six months">{{cite web | url = http://www.supersport.com/rugby/super-rugby/news/130625/Watson_out_for_six_months | title = Watson out for six months | work = SuperSport | date = 25 June 2013 | access-date = 25 June 2013}}</ref>

He finally returned to action in August 2014 after more than a year out. Due to the [[Currie Cup]]'s expansion from six to eight teams, the {{Rut|Eastern Province Kings}} found themselves in the Premier Division of the competition after a long absence. Watson played in two matches for the Kings – a 16–35 opening day defeat to former side {{Rut|Western Province}}, during which Watson took just 33 minutes to score his first try for the EP Kings after injury<ref name="Eastern Province Kings 16-35 DHL Western Province">{{SA Rugby Match Centre | id=120044 | homeid=18114 | awayid=18124 | leagueid=1784 | hometeam=Eastern Province Kings | homescore=16 | awayscore=35 | awayteam=DHL Western Province | matchdate=8 August 2014 | date=15 March 2016}}</ref> and a 30–25 loss to the {{Rut|Blue Bulls}} in [[Pretoria]].<ref name="Vodacom Blue Bulls 30-25 Eastern Province Kings">{{SA Rugby Match Centre | id=119694 | homeid=18094 | awayid=18114 | leagueid=1784 | hometeam=Vodacom Blue Bulls | homescore=30 | awayscore=25 | awayteam=Eastern Province Kings | matchdate=23 August 2014 | date=15 March 2016}}</ref> However, the injury curse struck again and Watson missed the remainder of the 2014 through a serious concussion.<ref name="Luke is klaar; Watson eers in 2015 terug">{{cite web | url = http://152.111.1.87/argief/berigte/dieburger/2014/09/16/24/ooskingspyn_30_0_495439865.html | title = Luke is klaar; Watson eers in 2015 terug | publisher = Die Burger | date = 19 September 2014 | access-date = 11 December 2014 | language = af | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20141211140232/http://152.111.1.87/argief/berigte/dieburger/2014/09/16/24/ooskingspyn_30_0_495439865.html | archive-date = 11 December 2014 | url-status = dead }}</ref>

==See also==
* [[Springbok Rugby]]
* [[Rugby World Cup]]

==References==
{{reflist}}

== External links ==
* {{Webarchive |url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090617225930/http://thestormers.com/profiles.asp?id=80 |date=17 June 2009 |title=Stormers profile }}
* {{SA Rugby Player Profile | id=21697 | name=Luke Watson | date=10 March 2016}}
* [http://hsm.co.za/sports-management/luke-watson/ Highbury Safika Media Profile]

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{{2002 South Africa Commonwealth Games Sevens squad}}
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{{DEFAULTSORT:Watson, Luke}}
[[Category:1983 births]]
[[Category:Living people]]
[[Category:Rugby union players from Gqeberha]]
[[Category:South African people of British descent]]
[[Category:Rugby union flankers]]
[[Category:South African rugby union players]]
[[Category:South Africa international rugby union players]]
[[Category:Stormers players]]
[[Category:Western Province (rugby union) players]]
[[Category:Bath Rugby players]]
[[Category:Sharks (rugby union) players]]
[[Category:Sharks (Currie Cup) players]]
[[Category:Eastern Province Elephants players]]
[[Category:Southern Kings players]]
[[Category:21st-century South African sportsmen]]
[[Category:South Africa international rugby sevens players]]
[[Category:Male rugby sevens players]]
[[Category:Rugby sevens players at the 2002 Commonwealth Games]]
[[Category:Commonwealth Games bronze medallists for South Africa]]
[[Category:Commonwealth Games rugby sevens players for South Africa]]
[[Category:Commonwealth Games bronze medallists in rugby sevens]]
[[Category:Alumni of Grey High School]]
[[Category:Medallists at the 2002 Commonwealth Games]]
[[Category:South African expatriate rugby union players in England]]