All Blacks and Springboks trade accusations over tactics ahead of first test
The All Blacks and Springboks are engaged in a pre-match war of words over allegations of time-wasting and questionable defending techniques.
Both teams are making claims and counter-claims ahead of their first test at Ellis Park in Johannesburg. The All Blacks have suggested South African sides deliberately slow the game, while Springboks coach Rassie Erasmus and assistant Felix Jones have disputed this and raised their own concerns about All Blacks breakdown tactics. The referee will face significant scrutiny as both teams have aired grievances in the lead-up to the match.
Covered byStuff1NewsNot covered byRNZNZ HeraldNewstalk ZBOtago Daily TimesNewsroomThe SpinoffBusinessDeskinterest.co.nz
Coverage across the news outlets we track, as at publication.
What outlets are saying
1News
Erasmus fires back at All Blacks' 'slow game' claims ahead of Test
The touring All Blacks have been pushing the narrative that South African teams, including the Springboks, deliberately slow down the game.
Stuff
âWere those slow games?â: Boks fire back at All Blacks' claims ahead of first test
Rassie Erasmus fronted with former top South African referee Jaco Peyper to make an emphatic case that they will not be looking to slow ball down against the All Blacks.
1News
All Blacks: Dave Rennie laughs off Boks' time-wasting claims
An attempt by South Africa's Rassie Erasmus to claim the high ground over the potential pace of play has been neatly sidestepped by coach Rennie.
Stuff
âGo down and prayâ: How the Boks will mix brutality and mind games against All Blacks
Springboks coach Rassie Erasmus will use every trick in the law book to try and defeat the All Blacks in the first test at Ellis Park in Johannesburg.
Stuff
âThey werenât happyâ: Springboks coach questions legality of All Blacks tactics
Felix Jones has raised concerns about how the All Blacks have been hitting breakdowns and defending driving mauls in South Africa.
1News
'Brutality?' Springboks coach questions All Blacks tactics
Analysis: Any inference from Felix Jones' comments that Dave Rennie is coaching methods that put opposing players at risk is a step too far, writes Patrick McKendry.
Stuff
âA chance to write our own chapterâ: All Blacks keeping it ârealâ for Boks challenge
It is not often the All Blacks are forced to look elsewhere for benchmarking. But this inaugural Rugbyâs Greatest Rivalry tour of South Africa is one of them.
Stuff
âAnnoyedâ referees left diffusing hand grenades from All Blacks and Springboks
Matthew Carley will be the man under the most scrutiny in South Africa after gripes from both teams ahead of the first test at Ellis Park.