World Cup-Winning New Zealand Coach Steve Hansen Warns Springboks Are at Their ‘Most Vulnerable’
- Steve Hansen believes the All Blacks could have an important edge heading into Saturday’s Ellis Park showdown
- The Springboks are facing questions over preparation after several players recently returned from injury
- The Ellis Park showdown could expose whether the Springboks’ limited preparation becomes a factor against a well-tested All Blacks side
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As the All Blacks prepare to face the Springboks at Ellis Park on Saturday, 22 August 2026, former New Zealand coach Steve Hansen warns that the world champions could exploit their rivals' vulnerabilities. He highlighted concerns over the Springboks' recent injury struggles and limited preparation time.
Steve Hansen highlights Springboks' preparation
Speaking on the Rugby Unity podcast, Hansen pointed to the two teams' contrasting build-ups.
The All Blacks have already played three United Rugby Championship sides during their South African tour. Hansen believes those matches have allowed Dave Rennie’s squad to develop combinations and prepare for the physical demands of Test rugby.
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“The big advantage of touring like this is you get to give your players the opportunity to play against opposition that you know you’re going to beat,” Hansen said as reported by Planet Rugby.
Springboks could be vulnerable
Hansen believes the Springboks’ limited recent game time could become significant.
“South Africa will be at their most vulnerable in this game because they haven’t played together for a while, because of injuries,” he said.
Several players recently returned from injury, including Siya Kolisi, Eben Etzebeth, Lood de Jager and Sacha Feinberg-Mngomezulu.
Despite his warning, Hansen acknowledged South Africa’s home advantage.
“You take into account that it’s home and you’re playing the number one team in the world,” he said.
He expects an intense contest when the two rivals meet in Johannesburg.
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Rassie Erasmus called a ‘master of sabotage’
Briefly News previously reported that Steve Hansen had also questioned Rassie Erasmus’ approach to the build-up ahead of the Springboks’ clash with the All Blacks.
The World Cup-winning former New Zealand coach described Erasmus as a “master of sabotage”, suggesting his public comments could be designed to keep opponents guessing before a Test.
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Source: Briefly News
