Rassie Erasmus keeps All Blacks plans under wraps

Springbok head coach Rassie Erasmus has refused to reveal whether South Africa will adopt a kicking or running approach against New Zealand in the upcoming Rugby’s Greatest Rivalry series.

Rassie Erasmus Keeps All Blacks Plans Quiet

Erasmus said South Africa’s tactical approach will depend on selection and how New Zealand perform in their tour matches against local franchises.

The All Blacks impressed during the opening phase of the Nations Championship with an up-tempo, ball-in-hand style, leading the tournament in carries and metres made. South Africa, meanwhile, kicked more than any other team in their wins over England, Scotland and Wales.

Despite those contrasting styles, the Springboks finished the opening block with more points and tries than New Zealand.

Springboks Weigh Kicking And Running Options

Erasmus said the choice of fly-half could influence South Africa’s approach. Sacha Feinberg-Mngomezulu, Handré Pollard and Manie Libbok all offer different attacking and kicking profiles.

The Springboks coach said the squad for the All Blacks series will only be finalised after the Argentina Test, giving the management team more time to assess form and fitness before committing to combinations.

"If we play Sacha [Feinberg-Mngomezulu], Handré [Pollard] or Manie [Libbok] at flyhalf, we have to decide whether we play a kicking game or a running game,” Erasmus said.

“It depends on what team we pick and how the All Blacks go in the franchise matches. We haven’t done a lot of analysing when it comes to the All Blacks, that is why the squad for the greatest rivalry series will only be announced after the Argentina match."

Franchise Matches Offer Selection Chance

The Rugby’s Greatest Rivalry tour will also include midweek matches between the All Blacks and South African franchises, including the Stormers, Sharks, Bulls and Lions.

Erasmus said those fixtures would be special occasions for local players, especially with the chance to face the haka and test themselves against New Zealand.

"The franchise matches are pretty special," Erasmus added.

"I remember playing for the Cheetahs in a midweek game against the British and Irish Lions and also playing my first Test for the Springboks against them. That Free State jersey has been framed.

"It’s a massive privilege to play the All Blacks. To face the haka for those players is going to be an honour."