The fundamentals of South Africa’s game have not changed a great deal since 2019. They rely on their ferocious power, their set piece and their kicking game, but in the ensuing years they’ve added an ability to move the ball when the opposition’s defence is on the ropes. That is what makes them such a dangerous side.
They have developed an ability to recognise opportunities through transition, or through speed of ball, and spot when the time is right for the ball to be moved. Their back three are having a lot more of an impact with the ball in hand compared with their traditional role of kick chasers who run their channels and they are showing the magic they can create. It is really impressive how they pick the right time to move the ball in terms of what they’ve created on the inside with their power game.
