Despite the Springboks' recent offensive flair under Tony Brown, Sir Steve Hansen, the former All Blacks coach, remains skeptical about their commitment to a faster, attacking style of play. Hansen, who has extensive experience coaching against South Africa, argues that the team still prioritizes their traditional rugby strengths—kicking and physicality. Despite their record-equalling try-scoring feats last year, Hansen believes the Springboks' approach remains fundamentally unchanged.
Hansen shared his insights on the Rugby Unity podcast, following a recent Springboks' victory over England. "You know that they’re going to kick the ball. So your aerial game has to be good, and you have to put pressure on the source, which is the kicker, for a start," he explained. He emphasized the effectiveness of the Springboks' strategy, "They do what they do really, really well, and it’s not flashy, but it’s done with intent, and it’s done with a high amount of skill for whatever that particular thing is they’re doing."
"To beat South Africa, you have to take away what they want. Take away the ability to be physical."
Hansen elaborated on the tactics required to counter the Springboks' game plan. He suggested, "When you ball carry, use your footwork into contact and don’t just try and T-bone them because they just love it." He also pointed out the necessity of playing at a high pace to challenge their depth and strong bench.
Agreeing with Hansen, Ewen McKenzie, former Wallabies and Queensland Reds coach, noted that retaining possession is crucial. "You go into the exam with all the questions and knowing the answers," McKenzie said, highlighting the importance of quick taps and skillful play to keep up the pace and pressure.
Frustration is key in overcoming the Springboks, according to Hansen. "It doesn’t matter who you are. If you get frustrated, your discipline goes out the door," he stated, suggesting that altering the catching strategy in the aerial game could be pivotal.
Reflecting on England's performance, Hansen criticized their slow start against the Springboks, emphasizing the impossibility of recovering from a significant early deficit against such a formidable team. "You can’t start slow – it doesn’t matter who you are," he remarked, underscoring the need for better preparation and strategy from the outset.
The tactical insights from experienced coaches like Hansen and McKenzie highlight the nuanced understanding required to challenge the world's top rugby teams, demonstrating that knowing your opponent’s strengths and strategies is just the beginning of crafting a winning game plan.