Sir Steve Hansen, a legendary figure in rugby coaching, has weighed in on the playing style of Rassie Erasmus' Springboks, offering a compelling perspective that challenges conventional wisdom. Hansen, known for his strategic acumen and success against South Africa during his tenure with the All Blacks, provides a detailed analysis that goes beyond the surface-level observations. He argues that the Springboks, despite their recent success and attempts to evolve, are still rooted in their traditional strengths, particularly in their kicking game and physicality. This insight raises intriguing questions about the team's true intentions and the strategies required to overcome them.
One of the key points Hansen emphasizes is the Springboks' reliance on their kicking game. He suggests that while they may talk about wanting to speed up the game, their actions indicate otherwise. Hansen explains, "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." This observation highlights the importance of aerial battles and the need for teams to be prepared for the Springboks' kicking prowess. It also implies that teams must adapt their strategies to counter this aspect of the Springboks' game, which is often overlooked.
Hansen's analysis extends to the Springboks' physicality, a trait they are renowned for. He notes, "They love physicality. So how do you take that physicality away from them when you’ve got the ball?" This raises a deeper question about the balance between physicality and speed in modern rugby. Hansen's suggestion that teams need to use footwork and evade the Springboks' physicality is a strategic insight that could be pivotal in future matches. It also underscores the importance of adaptability and the need for teams to find creative ways to counter the Springboks' strengths.
The former All Blacks coach also offers a critical perspective on the Springboks' bench strength and their ability to play fast. He states, "Their bench is strong, but challenge them to have to play fast. They talk about wanting to play fast, but they don’t really want to play fast. I don’t think." This commentary highlights the psychological aspect of rugby, where teams' words and actions may not always align. It also suggests that the Springboks' willingness to play fast may be more of a public relations strategy than a genuine desire, adding a layer of complexity to the team's playing style.
Hansen's insights are further supported by Ewen McKenzie, a former coach of the Wallabies and Queensland Reds. McKenzie agrees with Hansen's assessment, emphasizing the importance of quick taps and retaining possession to put pressure on the Springboks. He notes, "If you have the ball, then they’re left with their rushing defence, so a team like France would theoretically put pressure on them because they don’t mind a rushing defence and they’ll pass through that." This comparison between the Springboks and France provides a broader context for understanding the challenges teams face when playing against the Springboks.
In conclusion, Sir Steve Hansen's analysis of the Springboks' playing style offers a nuanced and thought-provoking perspective. His insights into their kicking game, physicality, and the psychological aspects of their approach provide a comprehensive understanding of the team's strengths and weaknesses. By challenging conventional wisdom and offering strategic insights, Hansen's commentary adds depth to the discussion around the Springboks' playing style and the strategies required to overcome them. It also underscores the importance of adaptability and creativity in modern rugby, where the ability to counter a team's strengths can often be the key to victory.
