Erasmus credits law changes for Nations Championship try-fest
SPOTLIGHT: The opening weekend of the Nations Championship delivered exactly what World Rugby had hoped for, and Springbok coach Rassie Erasmus believes the game’s latest law changes deserve much of the credit.
By the end of an enthralling first round of six consecutive Tests, 54 tries and 384 points had been scored – an average of nine tries and 64 points per match – with South Africa’s 45-21 victory over England at Ellis Park among the standout contests.
While some suggested teams may already be chasing bonus points under the new competition format, Erasmus said the attacking spectacle was more a reflection of rugby’s evolving laws than any change in mindset.
“I think it was beautiful rugby in most of the games this weekend,” Erasmus said.
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“I want to give World Rugby credit.”
The Springbok coach pointed to the new Law Application Guideline, introduced on 1 June, which prevents defenders from illegally dragging mauls down or remaining attached without actively contesting possession.
According to Erasmus, the adjustment has created more genuine contests, more space in open play and, ultimately, more tries.
“I think there were more maul tries scored in this opening round than in the entire Six Nations, if my stats are correct,” he said.
“People thought it would just become all about mauling, but because you can’t drag a maul anymore, teams have to commit more defenders.
“Then those players have to get out and defend again, so there’s more space and more tries because guys are tired from stopping mauls.”
Erasmus also praised the contest in the air, saying the law interpretations have improved the balance between attack and defence.
“I think the product World Rugby is putting out with these law adjustments is getting the rewards. There are good contests now.”
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Although the inaugural Nations Championship now features bonus points and a league table, Erasmus insists the Springboks are still driven by the same objective every time they take the field.
“That wasn’t our mindset,” he said.
“When you go into a Test match, you just want to win the Test match.”
He acknowledged that securing four tries can influence a team’s tactical approach late in games but warned against prioritising bonus points over victory.
“I do think all of a sudden when you see a table after a first round in June, July, it’s weird to see that.
“When you’ve got the four tries, you can relax a little bit and play more territory because you’ve secured the bonus point.
“But if you disrespect a Test match by chasing those things, you’ll probably lose it.
“A win is still what counts the most.”
