Razor's view on Rassie's sharp tactics
SPOTLIGHT: All Black head coach Scott Robertson expressed his views surrounding the Springboks’ unique tactics against Italy.
The Boks raised eyebrows from the get-go against the Italians when centre Andre Esterhuizen appeared to deliberately go in front of Manie Libbok, who took the kick-off.
Italy was awarded a scrum and subsequently a free-kick for an early engagement by the hosts.
There were also two instances during the Test where the Boks formed a midfield line-out maul from a ruck and scored from it on both occasions.
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Robertson said that he had no issue with the Boks’ antics and that he is no stranger to taking advantage of the game’s laws during his playing days with Perpignan in France.
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“We did that in my time in France,” Robertson said.
“In Perpignan, we had a hell of a scrum. We kicked it out on the full, and the forward pack just stood behind the kicker.
“It’s not new, but it shows your intentions, doesn’t it? That’s the great thing about rugby.
“It can be innovative, you can use your strengths and surprise people.”
Robertson also commented on the midfield line-out maul formation and whether it should be allowed to take place or not.
“It’s pretty unique, isn’t it?” he continued. “We’re talking about it, and it’s great for our game.
“People at World Rugby will look at it and play on. Or do you adapt and change?
“We have laws, not rules. Rules are pretty clear, yes or no. This is one of those open for interpretation.”
With additional reporting by The New Zealand Herald
