Valid argument, almost all of the bok tries came from the lineout. Whether trying to drive it over or being very smart using the loose forwards to get over the advantage line
Valid argument, almost all of the bok tries came from the lineout. Whether trying to drive it over or being very smart using the loose forwards to get over the advantage line
One thing about subbing the whole pack at the same time is it is harder to see which individuals are playing the best.
For example, the scrum improved when the reserve pack came on. It seemed to be OX making the biggest contribution, so is he playing better than Kitshoff? If so, how would it be better to start OX, as Kitshoffs form is solid- but perhaps not at his best
The variety also working in the a Bok's favour.
Suddenly there's a front row on that is probably 20cm shorter on average, an 8 that can break the line and RG who threatens in his own way.
It's not just being able to change out your entire pack but also the fact that you're offering a very different challenge from one minute to the next.
I imagine that being very difficult for opposition to adapt to.
Now certain quarters are complaining about the Boks using so many forwards on the bench.
If it is not against the rules, it is allowed.
I do expect the IRB to make some official ruling, probably after the world cup that limits the % of forwards on the bench.
According to Nienhaber they only had 7 forwards on because Willie had a niggle…Rassies game is the Forwards, backline enterprise is a bonus….IRE pundits most probably worried that the 7 will become a habit .
I think that article referred to the critic as Irish, but it was an Australian I think.
Although I did see another article from Irish players commenting negatively on it.
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Rassie's 2019 World Cup winning team peaked for the final, where they beat England with ease.
Perhaps this was down to how Rassie managed the forwards workload allowing them to be fresh in the final, unlike a depleted English team that played their final in the semi to beat the All Blacks.
International rugby changed after the last world cup with more teams opting for a 6/2 split of forwards- especially when playing against South Africa.
The problem for other teams is that they don't boast the same level of forward depth- at least of test standard. So if they get to the semis they might not be fresh, and struggle to also cover injuries.
Against the All Blacks on Saturday, Rassie fielded 7 forwards on the bench and one backline player.
After this World Cup, we may see the IRB limit the % of forwards on the bench.
The current status quo is good for South Africa, but there could be an argument that being able to substitute a whole pack might prevent the game from opening up in the 2nd half as players tire. (The starting tight five tire particularly after 50-60 minutes).