As the Springboks begin a new World Cup cycle, we identify three areas where there will be key improvements needed.
Ever since returning to his previous position as the Springboks’ head coach, Rassie Erasmus has emphasised that the team will need to keep evolving in order to keep succeeding.
With a few newcomers joining the management team, as well as a few new players expected to inject fresh blood into the team, there is no doubt that some key changes will be made over the next four years.
WHAT WILL THE SPRINGBOKS BE TARGETING?
Attacking revolution
During last year’s Rugby Championship, the Springboks featured prominently in several key attacking statistics as they began to show real signs of evolving that aspect of their game.
Historically, the Springboks have based a large part of their success on set-piece dominance, physicality up front, world-class defence and an astute kicking game.
Now, under the guidance of former All Black Tony Brown – who is one of the new assistant coaches – there will be a clear vision to ensure the team’s attack can match the success of other typical hallmarks of their game.
Goal-kicking accuracy
During last year’s World Cup, Handre Pollard received a belated call-up to the team and didn’t miss a single shot at goal.
In Pollard, the Springboks have an ace goal-kicker, but issues arise when he is not available. There are back-up place-kicking options when it comes to Manie Libbok, Faf de Klerk and Cheslin Kolbe, but none have the same authority in front of goal as is the case with Pollard.
This is a key area where the Springboks do need to work towards improvement, so as to ensure there are not any major concerns if Pollard is unavailable or injured.
Perhaps it could open the door for Lions duo Sanele Nohamba and Jordan Hendrikse, both of whom are reliable goal-kicking options.
Better understanding of laws and referee management
Back in February it was confirmed that former referee Jaco Peyper had been appointed in a new role for SA Rugby.
Peyper, a four-time SA Referee of the Year, Jaco Peyper, has joined the Springbok team as National Laws Advisor, with the goal being to ensure better understanding of the referees and their analysis of the laws.
Erasmus also wants to ensure there is better communication with World Rugby when it comes to receiving and providing feedback on referees and their performances, which is another key focus area.
All in all, the Springboks will be far better placed for continued success if they can target these areas for improvement.
FULL MANAGEMENT TEAM
Rassie Erasmus: Head Coach
Charles Wessels: Team Manager
Mzwandile Stick: Assistant Coach
Daan Human: Assistant Coach
Deon Davids: Assistant Coach
Tony Brown: Assistant Coach
Jerry Flannery: Assistant Coach
Andy Edwards: Head of Athletic Performance
Sebastian Prim: Sport Scientist
Paddy Sullivan: Performance Analyst
Lindsay Weyer: Technical Analyst
Jaco Peyper: Laws and Discipline Advisor
Dr Jerome Lehlogonolo Mampane: Team Doctor
Dr Aneurin Robyn: Physiotherapist
Rene Naylor: Physiotherapist
JJ Fredericks: Logistics Manager
Zintsika Tashe: Operations Manager
Zeena Isaacs van Tonder: Media Manager
