Springbok head coach Rassie Erasmus has revealed a significant change in the team’s attitude towards the All Blacks’ iconic Haka ahead of Saturday’s blockbuster Test at Ellis Park.
Rather than viewing New Zealand’s traditional challenge as something that needs to be neutralised or countered, Erasmus says the Springboks now see the Haka as a privilege and an honour.
The change in mindset has reportedly been influenced by former All Blacks player and current Springbok attack coach Tony Brown, whose insight into the meaning and significance of the ritual has given the South African squad a different perspective.
Springboks no longer looking to counter the Haka
In previous encounters, the Springboks considered how they could respond to the Haka and potentially limit its psychological impact.
Erasmus admits that thinking has now changed.
The coach believes the Haka is ultimately an important part of the All Blacks’ identity and should be allowed to have its full emotional impact.
“It’s a very emotional thing to have the privilege to face the Haka.”
Instead of trying to disrupt the ritual with a choreographed response or another form of confrontation, Erasmus says his players are looking forward to experiencing the moment.
The Springboks’ approach is therefore simple: respect the Haka, embrace the occasion and then get down to business.
Rassie has a message for the Ellis Park crowd
Erasmus has also called on the passionate Ellis Park crowd to give the All Blacks the space to perform the Haka.
Rather than immediately attempting to drown out the war cry, the Springbok coach wants supporters to listen and take in the occasion.
His belief is that allowing the Haka to play out could actually make the atmosphere inside the stadium even more powerful once it is over.
The message to the crowd is effectively: let the All Blacks have their moment — then unleash the South African passion.
That could create a memorable atmosphere at one of rugby’s most famous venues.
From emotion to execution
While Erasmus appreciates the spectacle surrounding the Haka, he knows the Springboks cannot afford to become distracted once the ritual ends.
The focus must quickly shift from emotion to execution.
Players will need to know their individual responsibilities from the opening kick-off, with every tactical detail suddenly becoming more important once the match gets underway.
For Erasmus, the Haka is therefore not a psychological battle that needs to be won before the Test. It is part of the occasion — and something both teams can respect before turning their attention to the real contest.
A different chapter in the rivalry
The approach represents an interesting evolution in the relationship between the Springboks and All Blacks.
One of rugby’s greatest rivalries has produced countless memorable Haka moments over the years, but Erasmus appears determined to ensure the Springboks approach this one with appreciation rather than confrontation.
With Ellis Park expected to be packed and the atmosphere building ahead of kick-off, the Haka could once again provide one of the most dramatic moments before the action begins.
And once it is finished, Erasmus’ message is clear: respect the ritual, then focus on the rugby.
