Sir Steve Hansen, a legendary figure in rugby coaching, has weighed in on the debate surrounding the Springboks' playing style under Rassie Erasmus. Hansen, known for his strategic acumen and success with the All Blacks, offers a compelling perspective on the team's approach and what it takes to beat them. In this article, we delve into Hansen's insights, exploring his views on the Springboks' tactics, the importance of frustration in rugby, and the challenges faced by opposing teams.
The Springboks' True Nature
Hansen's argument is clear: the Springboks, despite their recent success and attempts to adapt, are still rooted in their traditional strengths. He believes that they are not as open to a fast, attacking style as they might appear. Instead, they rely on their kicking game and physicality, which can be both a strength and a weakness.
"They love physicality, and that's the challenge for teams," Hansen explains. "You have to take away what they want. Take away the ability to be physical." This is a key insight, as it highlights the importance of disrupting the Springboks' rhythm and forcing them to play a different game.
The Art of Frustration
One of the most intriguing aspects of Hansen's analysis is his emphasis on frustration as a tactical tool. He argues that opposing teams must find ways to frustrate the Springboks, particularly in their kick chase game. By changing the catching game and employing unconventional strategies, teams can disrupt the Springboks' flow and force them to make mistakes.
"You've got to play around with your catching game and who’s catching it and have a backstop," Hansen suggests. "Little things like that. You’re just going to have to play around with your catching game and who’s catching it and have a backstop." This approach is both clever and challenging, as it requires a deep understanding of the Springboks' strengths and weaknesses.
The Impact of Set Phase
Hansen also touches on the influence of rugby's new set phase, which has been a significant part of the Springboks' success. He believes that teams like France have the tools to put pressure on the Springboks by playing at pace and retaining possession. This is a fascinating perspective, as it suggests that the Springboks' set phase, while effective, may not be as dominant as they think.
"You can keep the pace of the game up without risking possession," McKenzie, a former coach, agrees. "So, you can put pressure on them because they don’t mind a rushing defence and they’ll pass through that." This raises an important question: can the Springboks' set phase be exploited by teams with the right strategy?
The Future of Rugby
Looking ahead, Hansen's insights offer a glimpse into the future of rugby. He speculates that the game is evolving, with a focus on quick taps and retaining possession. This shift in strategy could have significant implications for the Springboks and other traditional powerhouses. "I think retaining possession is part of it. You’ve got to play in a way that frustrates them, and it’s like playing Fiji in some respects," he says.
In conclusion, Sir Steve Hansen's analysis provides a fresh perspective on the Springboks' playing style and the challenges they pose to opposing teams. His insights into frustration, the set phase, and the evolving nature of rugby offer a compelling read for fans and coaches alike. As the sport continues to evolve, Hansen's words serve as a reminder of the importance of adaptability and innovation in rugby strategy.
