In a move that screams 'Rassie Erasmus', All Blacks coach Scott Robertson is shaking things up by shuffling his team in unexpected ways for their upcoming match against France. It seems Robertson, affectionately known as Razor, might just be channeling his inner Erasmus, known for his often unconventional team selections.
Turning heads, Razor has placed Chiefs lock Tupou Vaa’i in the No 6 jersey, a position usually occupied by his Chiefs teammate Samipeni Finau, who has been relegated to the bench this time around. Defending his choice, Robertson explained,
"He’s done it before, he’s played for the Chiefs there before, so it’s not totally new. He’s a big man with a great skillset and he’s quick. He can slot in."
This isn't just a random experiment; it's a calculated strategy reminiscent of Erasmus' playbook, where players often find themselves in 'hybrid' roles.
Robertson tactfully avoided dropping names but hinted at the influence of Erasmus' method. "You have seen other guys do it. I won’t start naming names and comparing, because then it is a whole different storyline." This subtle nod acknowledges the global trend of flexible player roles without stirring the pot too much.
Last year's criticism of being too conservative seems to have spurred Robertson into action, prompting another surprising tactical shift: Rieko Ioane, usually seen at outside centre, will grace the left wing against Les Bleus. This bold reshuffling suggests that Razor is not only willing to adapt but also to innovate, pushing the traditional boundaries of player roles.
With the series set to continue in Wellington on July 12 and Hamilton on July 19, all eyes will be on how these strategic gambles play out on the field. Will Razor’s daring moves pay off against the formidable French team, or will this high-stakes chess game lead to a checkmate? Only time will tell, but one thing is certain: the All Blacks are not afraid to mix it up.
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In a move that screams 'Rassie Erasmus', All Blacks coach Scott Robertson is shaking things up by shuffling his team in unexpected ways for their upcoming match against France. It seems Robertson, affectionately known as Razor, might just be channeling his inner Erasmus, known for his often unconventional team selections.
Turning heads, Razor has placed Chiefs lock Tupou Vaa’i in the No 6 jersey, a position usually occupied by his Chiefs teammate Samipeni Finau, who has been relegated to the bench this time around. Defending his choice, Robertson explained,
"He’s done it before, he’s played for the Chiefs there before, so it’s not totally new. He’s a big man with a great skillset and he’s quick. He can slot in."
This isn't just a random experiment; it's a calculated strategy reminiscent of Erasmus' playbook, where players often find themselves in 'hybrid' roles.Robertson tactfully avoided dropping names but hinted at the influence of Erasmus' method. "You have seen other guys do it. I won’t start naming names and comparing, because then it is a whole different storyline." This subtle nod acknowledges the global trend of flexible player roles without stirring the pot too much.
Last year's criticism of being too conservative seems to have spurred Robertson into action, prompting another surprising tactical shift: Rieko Ioane, usually seen at outside centre, will grace the left wing against Les Bleus. This bold reshuffling suggests that Razor is not only willing to adapt but also to innovate, pushing the traditional boundaries of player roles.
With the series set to continue in Wellington on July 12 and Hamilton on July 19, all eyes will be on how these strategic gambles play out on the field. Will Razor’s daring moves pay off against the formidable French team, or will this high-stakes chess game lead to a checkmate? Only time will tell, but one thing is certain: the All Blacks are not afraid to mix it up.