When France and South Africa clash at the Stade de France this Saturday, the French team will be prepared for the inventive strategies of Rassie Erasmus and his Springboks squad. Fly-half Romain Ntamack emphasized the team's rigorous preparation, aware that the innovative Springboks coach will likely have a few surprises planned. This preparation comes as a crucial move after the memorable 2023 World Cup final face-off.
Under Erasmus's guidance, the Springboks have not only enhanced their offensive gameplay with the recruitment of Tony Brown but have also introduced novel tactics like the 'Twin Towers' lineout. Such innovations were evident in matches against top-tier teams like Australia and New Zealand, and the unconventional use of scrums from the kickoff against Italy. France is keenly aware of these tactics, having witnessed a unique scrum call from a mark inside their own 22 during the quarter-final two years ago—a move now banned.
"We expect all sorts of innovations from the Springboks, but we've been studying them intensely at the CNR so we're not caught off guard,"
Ntamack shared with RugbyRama.
Ntamack also commented on his dynamic with Nolann Le Garrec, who steps into the scrumhalf role in Antoine Dupont’s absence. "We’ve known each other for a long time and have developed a good rapport during our training camps in Marcoussis," he noted, expressing confidence in their partnership to steer France to a hopeful victory.
The French team isn't just focusing on countering South African tactics; they're also honing their skills in aerial play, a critical area against a team that excels in such situations. "Being good under the high ball allows us to absorb the pressure and turn it around. It’s an attacking weapon," Ntamack explained, underlining the strategic importance of aerial dominance.
Ntamack is also wary of the threat posed by South African newcomer Sacha Feinberg-Mngomezulu, praising his skills and the challenge of containing him and other key players like Cheslin Kolbe and Kurt-Lee Arendse. "He’s very good; I watched him play during the Rugby Championship. He’s an additional weapon and also brings out the best in exceptional players," he admitted.
With meticulous preparation and strategic enhancements, France aims to not only counter the innovative South African tactics but also to exploit their own strengths in the upcoming high-stakes match.
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When France and South Africa clash at the Stade de France this Saturday, the French team will be prepared for the inventive strategies of Rassie Erasmus and his Springboks squad. Fly-half Romain Ntamack emphasized the team's rigorous preparation, aware that the innovative Springboks coach will likely have a few surprises planned. This preparation comes as a crucial move after the memorable 2023 World Cup final face-off.
Under Erasmus's guidance, the Springboks have not only enhanced their offensive gameplay with the recruitment of Tony Brown but have also introduced novel tactics like the 'Twin Towers' lineout. Such innovations were evident in matches against top-tier teams like Australia and New Zealand, and the unconventional use of scrums from the kickoff against Italy. France is keenly aware of these tactics, having witnessed a unique scrum call from a mark inside their own 22 during the quarter-final two years ago—a move now banned.
"We expect all sorts of innovations from the Springboks, but we've been studying them intensely at the CNR so we're not caught off guard,"
Ntamack shared with RugbyRama.Ntamack also commented on his dynamic with Nolann Le Garrec, who steps into the scrumhalf role in Antoine Dupont’s absence. "We’ve known each other for a long time and have developed a good rapport during our training camps in Marcoussis," he noted, expressing confidence in their partnership to steer France to a hopeful victory.
The French team isn't just focusing on countering South African tactics; they're also honing their skills in aerial play, a critical area against a team that excels in such situations. "Being good under the high ball allows us to absorb the pressure and turn it around. It’s an attacking weapon," Ntamack explained, underlining the strategic importance of aerial dominance.
Ntamack is also wary of the threat posed by South African newcomer Sacha Feinberg-Mngomezulu, praising his skills and the challenge of containing him and other key players like Cheslin Kolbe and Kurt-Lee Arendse. "He’s very good; I watched him play during the Rugby Championship. He’s an additional weapon and also brings out the best in exceptional players," he admitted.
With meticulous preparation and strategic enhancements, France aims to not only counter the innovative South African tactics but also to exploit their own strengths in the upcoming high-stakes match.