Damian de Allende Accused of Feigning Injury During Springboks vs All Blacks Test
- Springbok centre Damian de Allende was seen receiving medical attention at a critical moment in the fourth Test against the All Blacks in Baltimore
- The timing of the stoppage drew scrutiny from fans, who questioned whether it was a deliberate attempt to disrupt New Zealand's momentum
- The incident added to a series of controversies surrounding the Springboks during their 3-1 series victory on the Rugby's Greatest Rivalry tour
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Springbok centre Damian de Allende has come under scrutiny after appearing to receive treatment from the team doctor at a suspiciously convenient moment during the fourth and final Test of the Rugby's Greatest Rivalry tour on 13 September 2026.
Source: Getty Images
The Springboks defeated the All Blacks 43-28 in Baltimore to seal a 3-1 series victory, but the win was accompanied by fresh allegations of gamesmanship directed at Rassie Erasmus' side.
De Allende stoppage raises questions
The contentious moment occurred around the 25-minute mark. De Allende had just completed a carry and was not visibly hurt, yet he went down for medical attention immediately after the Springboks conceded possession via a knock-on. Critics noted that New Zealand had been building significant momentum at the time, and the stoppage appeared to disrupt their rhythm entirely.
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X user @Rugby_Scoop was among those who flagged the incident, writing:
"You have to give to the Springboks. Personally I don't understand how officials can't stamp out deliberate & intentional time wasting. Damian de Allende just made a good carry earlier, and then once Boks knocked the ball, he's down being checked by the Team Doctor?"
It is worth noting that there was some head contact during the tackle on De Allende, which could justify the doctor's involvement. However, footage of the incident suggested the contact was minimal.
A pattern of controversy on tour
This was not the only stoppage that raised eyebrows during the match. An earlier interruption also occurred as New Zealand were gaining momentum, though that was attributed to a technical fault with the referee's microphone and not connected to either team.
Beyond the injury incident, Erasmus attracted criticism throughout the tour for announcing his squads unusually early before making late changes to his selections. Many observers interpreted the tactic as a form of psychological warfare, prompting calls for World Rugby to tighten rules around the team announcement process.
South African supporters largely defended their side in the replies to @Rugby_Scoop's post, showing little sympathy for the criticism directed at the Springboks. The series victory nonetheless marks another dominant chapter for the reigning world champions against their oldest rivals.
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Source: Briefly News
