After the 33-26 loss in Cape Town, Dave Rennie singled out the Boks' scrummaging tactics as an ongoing concern — specifically the walking-around movement that targeted the All Blacks' tighthead — and confirmed World Rugby have already been contacted about the issue. While Rennie credited referee Angus Gardner for managing the set-piece better than in Johannesburg, he wasn't fully satisfied, particularly after Marx and Nche's early arrival changed the dynamic. Beyond the scrum, Rennie acknowledged the Boks dominated territory through their carrying, cleaning and aerial game, which disrupted All Black continuity and created the platform for the win. With the series decider at FNB Stadium next weekend, this piece is worth reading for insight into how New Zealand plan to adjust — and whether Rennie's scrum grievances are tactical posturing, a legitimate officiating issue, or both.
Rennie flags scrum concerns ahead of decider — but admits Boks deserved the win
Rennie has flagged the Boks' scrummaging tactics — and specifically the walking-around technique targeting the All Blacks' tighthead — as an ongoing concern after the Cape Town loss, with World Rugby already looped in. Beyond the set-piece, he acknowledged South Africa's dominance at the breakdown and in the air as the decisive factors heading into the FNB decider.
- Springboks
- New Zealand
- Malcolm Marx
- FNB Stadium
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