Rennie’s silence adds intrigue to Springboks-All Blacks rivalry

South Africa coach Rassie Erasmus has dominated the public conversation around the Test series, while New Zealand counterpart Dave Rennie’s lack of comment this week has been striking.

The contrast has created a fascinating public-relations contest alongside the rugby, with both coaches attempting to shield their players from the noise surrounding two high-intensity matches.

As a young player, I made many mistakes. I was very lucky to play with quality individuals in some great teams, tour with the Springboks, win some Cups, and be part of fantastic campaigns. As soon as I did anything that wasn’t related to just performing on the field, I could feel the cracks come in. I could genuinely feel the difference in my performance.

At the time, I had an ambitious and excitable agent and was among the first players in the country to have one. He presented me as the face or representative of almost anything, from major, long-term partnerships such as adidas to short-term commercial opportunities.

Appearances, dinners and similar commitments gradually distracted me from rugby.

Watching two outstanding, fast-paced and fiercely contested matches between the Springboks and All Blacks brought those memories back and highlighted how effectively Rennie and Erasmus have kept the focus on their players.

The debate around the series has covered everything from the scrum and tackling to the influence either side may have had on the referee. Yet very little of that criticism has landed on the players themselves.

South Africa have had to make changes because of injuries, but that has been the main way the surrounding speculation has affected the squad.

That is a significant tribute to the two coaches. They have absorbed the pressure and allowed their players to concentrate fully on performing, which may help explain the quality and intensity of the matches.

It may also explain why they are regarded as two of the best coaches in the world.

Freshness could prove decisive

Statistics have been published comparing the total playing time of the current Springbok squad with that of New Zealand’s players.

Erasmus was direct in arguing that South Africa have rotated their squad sufficiently to ensure the players are not excessively tired because of a handful of additional minutes.

There have been physical collisions, while replacements have been required to make an impact and cover extra time. However, South Africa appear to have benefited from a healthier average rest period than their opponents, even though the All Blacks are younger on average.

That difference could become important in the Test match. A major factor will be whether South Africa can keep their experienced, well-drilled players fresh.

By comparison, Rennie’s silence this week has been deafening. The heavyweight coaches, supported by the best players and resources, are conducting their own contest away from the field.

New Zealand’s young team have shown that they have developed a strong understanding. They can attack from almost anywhere, use the width of the field effectively and combine forwards and backs with impressive interpassing.

That attacking approach has helped them escape pressure and score tries. South Africa will need to continue finding ways to contain it.

Jesse Kriel worked particularly hard with his ‘outside in’ defence in the closing stages of the game. Pieter-Steph du Toit was also heavily involved, while Andre Esterhuizen’s late steal on the far side of the field preserved South Africa’s chance of winning by seven points after New Zealand had enjoyed prolonged possession.

The equation is simple: total commitment for the full match could produce victory for one side, while the other can still hope only for a draw.

Then it is on to Baltimore, with the next meeting already generating excitement and nerves.

Away from the rugby, the tour has also become a major source of entertainment. “How low can you go” has been the meme of the week, with sponsors and partners finding themselves on newspaper front pages around the world.

South Africa’s pilots have also earned praise for their skill and bravery, prompting the suggestion that more flight schools should open in the country.

Former players and pundits have added to the discussion, helping make this one of the most talked-about tours in recent history. More importantly, they appear to be enjoying it.

Justin Marshall, Schalk Burger, John Smit, Hanyani Shimange and Andrew Mehrtens have been among those discussing the Buffalo club, where members are not allowed to hold a beer in their right hand. They have also shared photographs identifying people who have broken that rule.

Dan Carter, Richie McCaw and Beaver have been seen running up Table Mountain to begin their day in Cape Town. They should also visit The Alexander Estate on the edge of Noordhoek Village, a location praised for its views, wine and hospitality.

Bakkies Botha has been hosting former players and supporters on safari in the South African bush, where conversations about rugby have been accompanied by beers and, no doubt, a brandy or two.

Former rivals have also taken their places together in commentary teams. Sean Fitzpatrick and Zinzan Brooke have been enjoying South Africa, watching old opponents on the field while celebrating their relationships away from it.

That is one of rugby’s great strengths: its ability to create lasting connections between people from different countries and generations.

Bob Skinstad can be followed on LinkedIn.