Dave Rennie’s elevation to All Blacks coach ought to fear Springbok followers, writes MARK KEOHANE.
Writing for the Sunday Instances, Keohane argues that Rennie’s appointment isn’t just one other change in New Zealand’s teaching field however a reminder of a profession sample during which his groups have constantly dismantled South African opposition.
His document, from junior rugby to Tremendous Rugby and the worldwide stage, reveals a coach who understands find out how to disrupt South African methods.
Rennie first made that influence with New Zealand U20, successful three straight world titles between 2008 and 2010. Within the 2010 semi-final his aspect hammered South Africa 36-7, earlier than crushing Australia within the ultimate.
“When his groups are organised, bodily and assured, they’re very comfy towards South African rugby.”
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The sample grew to become extra pronounced on the Chiefs. Between 2012 and 2017 Rennie’s sides beat South African groups 18 occasions in 24 matches and gained back-to-back Tremendous Rugby titles. The Stormers nonetheless keep in mind the brutality, together with a 60-21 quarter-final demolition at Newlands in 2016.
Even with the Wallabies, Rennie discovered methods to unsettle the Springboks. His Australia workforce beat the world champions 3 times in 4 Checks performed in Australia between 2021 and 2022.
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Keohane believes Rennie’s system is easy however efficient: “bodily matching South African groups, absorbing stress and exposing South African rush defensive methods.”
The All Blacks haven’t appointed a caretaker. They’ve appointed a coach who is aware of precisely find out how to problem South African rugby – and has spent a lot of his profession proving it.
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