"I think it’s very difficult for Dave Rennie to start [his All Blacks tenure] and to face the Springboks," Meyer expressed on the Behind the Ruck podcast. He admires the All Blacks’ gameplay but criticizes their player depth, highlighting the loss of talent to overseas clubs.
"And I think that’s what the All Blacks don’t have... They don’t have the depth because they only keep big guys [well-known players] in New Zealand and they’ve lost a lot of good guys [to overseas clubs]."
Meyer, who led the Springboks from 2012 to 2015, points out that the strength of South Africa lies in its traditional rugby fundamentals. He noted the importance of scrummaging and mauling, especially as the game evolves to allow complete pack substitutions, bolstering teams with deep bench strength during matches.
"The game has changed because you can bring in a whole new pack. So, we’re the only team in the world that’s got that depth in the forwards, maybe France [as well]," said Meyer. He confidently backs the Springboks' capabilities, especially when playing at home.
"And if you don’t have a good set-piece, you’re in trouble. And we’ve got an unbelievable set-piece. So, it will be close, but at home, you have to back the Springboks."
Meyer also reflected on the Boks' recent 17-10 victory over Argentina in Buenos Aires, a match wherein the Springboks overcame adversity and clinched the win despite not being at their best.
"They know they didn’t play well, but they still know how to win. They were under pressure, everything went against them and two moments, two great tries. So, we’ve got brilliant players, but I think our set-piece is by far the best in the world."
As the series progresses, it will be intriguing to see how Rennie adjusts his strategies against the formidable Springboks and whether the All Blacks can prove Meyer wrong by demonstrating depth beyond their headline stars. With the stage set for an intense showdown, rugby fans worldwide will be watching closely as these titanic teams battle it out.
The statements from Meyer not only set the tone for an explosive series but also frame the narrative around the tactical elements crucial in modern rugby, highlighting the significance of not just skill, but the strategic deployment of resources in securing victory.
