Nick Mallett has flagged a specific concern heading into the Rugby's Greatest Rivalry series: the All Blacks' tendency to bend the laws when defending against maul tries. Mallett wants referees to be firm and unambiguous in policing it — implying that if officials let things slide, New Zealand will exploit the grey areas. The piece is worth reading for his breakdown of exactly how the All Blacks operate in that space and what it means for Bok attack.
AnalysisSpringboksSA Rugby Mag
Mallett wants referees to keep All Blacks honest at the maul
Mallett is calling on referees to clamp down on All Blacks maul-killing tactics ahead of the Rugby's Greatest Rivalry series, warning they're adept at working the dark arts in that phase.
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