The Springboks face pressure to maintain their edge in rugby's evolving aerial contests as teams like France embrace tactical innovations. Following a recent conference, coaches emphasize the importance of scrums, kicks, and high balls in creating dynamic play. This sets the stage for a competitive 2026 Test season, including matches against northern hemisphere powerhouses.
The Springboks' coaching staff returned from the Shape of the Game conference in London with a renewed focus on rugby's tactical landscape. South Africa and France successfully argued to preserve the scrum as a core element, ensuring no major law changes until after the 2027 World Cup in Australia. This stability allows Bok coach Rassie Erasmus to proceed with planned strategies over the next 18 months.
However, performances in the ongoing Six Nations highlight the need for adaptation. France remains unbeaten after three rounds, scoring 123 points and 18 tries, positioning them to retain the trophy and achieve a Grand Slam with wins over Scotland and England. The Springboks will face France in Paris this November, as part of the inaugural Nations Championship where they play all six major northern hemisphere teams.
Bok assistant coach Felix Jones noted the benefits of aerial contests, stating, “It came up at the Shape of the Game conference, how great the aerial contest has been for the game, and how it has correlated with more line breaks and more tries, which everyone loves to see.” In 2025, the Springboks set records with 572 points and 81 tries, retaining a high percentage of contestable kicks to launch attacks.
France, under coach Fabien Galthié, mirrors some Bok approaches with a forward-heavy bench and emphasis on set pieces alongside high-tempo play. Jones observed, “France have shown that they are willing to play in an unstructured manner... It’s a joy to watch, on the back of how they’re investing in the contest.”
Attack coach Mzwandile Stick highlighted the evolving role of tight forwards in aerial battles, saying, “The tight forwards need to take the space and look for the scraps. Decision making and body height is so important in those scenarios.” Defence coach Jerry Flannery added that while challenges exist, “It is a challenge for the defence, but it’s been good for the game as a whole.” Ireland's recent 42-21 win over England featured 31 kicks, underscoring the strategy's effectiveness.
