When asked which teams in world rugby were setting the benchmark with their scrum, Bok specialist coach Peter de Villiers ran through most of the world’s top teams, Ireland, New Zealand who are efficient, Argentina on opposition ball, England and Australia, too.
“We have also done quite well with the scrums over the last few years, I think,” he added with a smile.
It is an unavoidable truth that the scrum will be a focal point during the World Cup, especially in light of laws that seem to differ, depending on where in the world the referee comes from.
Having been badly caught out against Argentina in the Kings Park Test, the Boks have naturally given a lot of attention to the set-piece.
“Physically we didn’t do well in that game, and some interpretations didn’t go our way as well. But we have addressed that, and the next week I think the guys showed that mindset is extremely important. We had the physical domination, we got everyone involved to make an impact, and then the bench picked up from the good start, and carried it forward,” De Villiers enthused.
The Boks, having been “Bryce Lawrenced” in 2011, would be forgiven for being extra vigilant with making sure that they are on the right side of the law. Vincent Koch bore the brunt of Romain Poite’s ire in that ill-fated Durban Test, but De Villiers said the squad had moved on from that.
There still seems to be a lot that can be lost in translation, and De Villiers, who made his name in France, relished the prospect of challenging his pod of props with the best in the world.
“When you scrum against teams from the north, there is a difference. From the scrum set up, to the habits of the referees who see a different picture, that all demands a bit of adaptation,” he explained.
Tomorrow night, Heyneke Meyer will put the country and 40 or so players out of suspense, and name his squad.
What is a certainty is that, when it comes to his props anyway, Jannie du Plessis will be the first name on his list.
“Jannie has worked hard on his conditioning, and he is in a very good space. He has had a great few weeks, and I think the props as a whole are as fit and as strong as possible,” De Villiers beamed.
It is a matter of pride that he provides Meyer with as many quality options as possible, and the last few weeks have been tough on the players, but the dividends will probably pay off down the line.
“We are very fortunate to have so many props coming through, and they have been in form this season.
“We have a lot of quality, but ultimately, it is up to Heyneke to balance the squad as he sees fit,” he said. - The Star