Rassie Erasmus Breaks Silence As All Blacks’ Time-Wasting Claims Surface Ahead of First Test
- Rassie Erasmus has responded directly to the All Blacks’ complaints about the pace of play ahead of Saturday’s opening Test at Ellis Park
- The Springboks coach has questioned whether South Africa’s recent meetings with New Zealand support the growing claims about deliberate delays
- Jaco Peyper has also explained the World Rugby regulations governing the time teams have to prepare for set-pieces
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Rassie Erasmus has hit back at suggestions that the Springboks deliberately waste time, insisting South Africa’s approach remains within the laws ahead of the first Test against New Zealand on Saturday, August 22, 2026.
The issue has become a prominent talking point during the All Blacks’ tour, with New Zealand coach Dave Rennie calling for referees to address what he sees as delays.
Erasmus questioned whether the criticism matches what happened during the teams’ previous encounters.
“Now, truth is, our last two games against New Zealand in Auckland and in Wellington, people can go and look at those games. Were those slow games?” Erasmus said as reported by KickOff.
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Jaco Peyper explains 30-second rule
Former Test referee Jaco Peyper offered further clarity on the regulations. He explained that the countdown starts when the referee marks the set-piece, rather than when the whistle is blown.
“The law is very clear. Thirty seconds from the moment the referee puts his foot down,” Peyper said.
He added that the Springboks train specifically to meet that requirement.
Boks turn pressure back on All Blacks
Erasmus also explained why preparation can take place before the referee gives the mark.
“We have 11 languages, which we have to make sure that everybody understands the line-out call,” he said.
Peyper added that teams can also affect tempo through repeated infringements at breakdowns or mauls.
The first Test at Ellis Park will therefore carry an added subplot when the rivalry resumes.
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Dave Rennie’s time-wasting concerns add fuel to Boks rivalry
Briefly News previously reported that All Blacks coach Dave Rennie had already raised concerns about the way South African teams manage stoppages during matches.
Rennie questioned lengthy line-out preparations and other delays after New Zealand’s 54-0 victory over the Sharks in Durban on August 11, 2026. His comments added an intriguing layer to the All Blacks’ build-up to their Tests against the Springboks.
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Source: Briefly News
