Wallabies Legend Hails Rassie Erasmus Ahead of Springboks Clash Against Australia
- Former Wallabies coach Ewen McKenzie praised Rassie Erasmus for starting Morné van den Berg in the series decider against New Zealand
- Van den Berg scored his first try against the All Blacks and completed a full 80 minutes in the Springboks' victory at Baltimore's M&T Bank Stadium
- The Australian rugby legend highlighted Van den Berg's impact as evidence of the depth Erasmus has built at halfback for South Africa
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Former Wallabies coach Ewen McKenzie has singled out scrumhalf Morné van den Berg for special praise after his standout performance in the Springboks' 43-28 victory over the All Blacks in the Rugby's Greatest Rivalry series decider at Baltimore's M&T Bank Stadium.
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The win, which sealed South Africa's series triumph 3-1, was built in part on Van den Berg's commanding display across all 80 minutes, earning him the Man of the Match award on the night.
McKenzie applauds Erasmus decision
Speaking on the Rugby Unity podcast, McKenzie praised Springbok coach Rassie Erasmus for making the selection change that had a major impact on the match.
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McKenzie highlighted Erasmus’ decision to bring Van den Berg into the starting lineup at halfback, a move that ultimately paid off when the player was named Man of the Match.
The Australian coaching veteran was also impressed by the scrumhalf’s all-round contribution. Rather than limiting himself to his role as an attacking link player, Van den Berg made his presence felt defensively, competed strongly at the breakdowns and regularly challenged for possession over the ball.
Van den Berg also made a significant impact in attack by scoring his first try against New Zealand after finishing off a lineout maul. He backed that up with crisp distribution to the flyhalves, effective box kicks that contributed to the Springboks’ dominance in the aerial battle, and a strong defensive showing that included 10 tackles.
Depth at halfback a Springbok strength
McKenzie’s comments highlighted the strength of South Africa’s squad depth under Rassie Erasmus, particularly when it comes to finding effective replacements.
The former coach credited Erasmus for identifying an unexpected option who stepped up on the big stage and went on to claim Man of the Match honours. He also praised the Springboks’ depth and Erasmus’ ability to use his squad effectively during the Test.
South Africa’s series win over New Zealand further underlined the team’s strength as they move into the next stage of the international season. Erasmus has shown that he can rotate his halfback options while maintaining a consistent level of performance.
Springboks veterans face another 2027 question
Briefly News also reported that Jake White had raised concerns about the physical demands being placed on several experienced Springboks during the Rugby’s Greatest Rivalry series.
The 2007 World Cup-winning coach questioned how much more players such as Malcolm Marx, Jesse Kriel, Damian de Allende, Eben Etzebeth and Siya Kolisi could give after a demanding run of Tests.
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Source: Briefly News
