Scrum dispute sharpens ahead of tied South Africa–New Zealand series
Rassie Erasmus has rejected Dave Rennie’s allegation that South Africa angles sideways at scrums, as the four-Test series moves to Johannesburg level at 1-1.
South Africa and New Zealand will enter the third Test with their four-match series level at 1-1, after a public dispute between coaches Rassie Erasmus and Dave Rennie over scrum tactics.
Rennie alleged that the Springboks were “walking around” during scrums by angling sideways rather than remaining square. He said New Zealand had provided feedback to World Rugby, although the nature and outcome of that feedback have not been specified.
Speaking after the second Test, Rennie said referee Angus Gardner had improved scrum management by setting a clearer mark and attempting to keep the hookers in a consistent position. He said South Africa had moved further left before being stopped.
Erasmus rejected the allegation as “nonsense”, questioning why South Africa would change a tactic that had not previously been raised. He suggested New Zealand were under pressure, while the report does not independently establish whether the Springboks breached rugby’s laws.
South Africa won the second Test 33-26 in Cape Town after New Zealand took the opener 33-16 at Ellis Park. South Africa had made five changes to its named squad before the second match, including a complete change to the front row.
Erasmus has also indicated that conditions could affect selection for the third Test in Johannesburg. He said South Africa might make one or two changes if rain was forecast, while a clear and dry match would see the named team start.
