Springboks head coach Rassie Erasmus has identified an intriguing tactical change in the All Blacks’ game ahead of the opening Test of the highly anticipated Rugby’s Greatest Rivalry series.
South Africa and New Zealand are set to renew their rivalry at Ellis Park in Johannesburg, with both teams entering the contest under intense scrutiny following a dramatic build-up.
While much of the pre-match discussion has focused on injuries, selection debates and tactical exchanges between the two camps, Erasmus has now highlighted an unusual strategy being used by the All Blacks to deal with kicks into the backfield.
Erasmus spots clever All Blacks kicking strategy
According to Erasmus, New Zealand have introduced an interesting variation to their approach to the aerial contest.
Rather than always having a winger or fullback move forward to receive a kick, one of their wingers can retreat backwards to position themselves for the catch.
The Springbok coach believes the tactic is both unusual and highly effective, and South Africa have already been studying ways to counter it.
“I think it’s a wonderful strategy and very clever and innovative,” Erasmus said.
The tactic could add another layer to the battle for territory, particularly with both teams possessing dangerous back-three combinations and world-class kicking games.
For the Springboks, dealing with New Zealand’s ability to manipulate the aerial contest could prove crucial in preventing the All Blacks from turning defensive kicks into attacking opportunities.
Tight-five battle could decide the Test
While the All Blacks’ back-three tactics have caught Erasmus’ attention, the Springbok coach is also expecting a fierce physical battle in the forwards.
The contest at lineout time could be particularly important, with both sides boasting tall and athletic locks.
New Zealand’s Josh Lord and Fabian Holland present a different challenge, while the Springboks can call on experienced forwards including Eben Etzebeth, Pieter-Steph du Toit and Ruan Nortje.
Erasmus also singled out All Blacks hookers Codie Taylor and Asafo Aumua as significant threats.
Taylor’s accuracy at the lineout could make it difficult for South Africa to disrupt New Zealand’s set-piece possession, while Aumua brings considerable physicality when he enters the match.
The Springboks will therefore need to be sharp not only in defending the All Blacks’ maul but also when trying to disrupt their attacking lineouts.
Springboks refusing to rely on recent dominance
South Africa have enjoyed an impressive run against their traditional rivals in recent years, winning five of their last six meetings since August 2023.
However, Erasmus has dismissed the idea that previous results will give the Springboks an automatic advantage.
For the experienced coach, history means little once the whistle goes.
His message to the squad is simple: the only result that matters is the one that comes on Saturday.
That mindset could be vital as the Springboks prepare for another intense encounter against an All Blacks side determined to make a statement.
With tactical innovation, set-piece battles and physicality all expected to play major roles, the opening Test promises to be another chapter in one of international rugby’s greatest rivalries.
