All Blacks assistant coach Tana Umaga has warned his side to prepare for multiple threats when they face the Springboks in the opening Test of the Greatest Rivalry at Ellis Park on Saturday.
Speaking at the team's training session in Johannesburg on Tuesday, Umaga — who oversees New Zealand's defensive structures — singled out the physical challenge posed by the South African pack. "The size of their pack and just the relentless wave of a big burden coming at you, I think that's going to be tough for us," Umaga told reporters.
The former All Blacks captain also emphasised that the Springboks have developed their attacking game under Rassie Erasmus and the current coaching staff, which includes Tony Brown. "Everyone talks about their set piece, but they've grown in terms of their attacking prowess and the backs and utilising their forwards in the right spaces," Umaga said. "They've added some really soft touches to their game with the skill set they have within the backs. Once you concentrate on what's coming to you upfront, they look for space out wide, and they look for space in behind. If you focus on one thing, you'll take your eyes off another."
Umaga stressed that controlling possession and imposing their own game would be crucial for the All Blacks. "The fundamentals of making sure you're looking after the ball, controlling the ball as much as you can, so that means catching it and looking after it but also just trying to impose your own game," he added. "Those that can impose their game, build momentum, and put on the pressure will be more likely to come away with points."