Nick Mallett warns Boks against playing loose against All Blacks

Nick Mallett has warned the Springboks that they risk repeating past mistakes if they attempt to play an expansive game against the All Blacks next Saturday. The former South African coach believes the world champions must rely on their traditional tactical strengths to avoid a loss at Ellis Park.

Mallett referenced the 38-22 Rugby Championship defeat against Australia in Johannesburg as a cautionary tale. In that match, South Africa held a 22-0 lead within the opening 20 minutes before collapsing, allowing the Wallabies to secure their first victory at the venue since 1963. He argued that the fast, loose approach used in that game would suit the high-tempo style favored by New Zealand coach Dave Rennie.

To succeed in the upcoming series opener, Mallett insists the Boks must focus on the areas where they hold a physical advantage. He noted that the All Blacks prefer to avoid confrontations in the scrums, driving mauls, and contestable kicking situations. He suggested that South Africa must bring these specific elements to the match to remain competitive.

According to Mallett, the foundations of South Africa's world number one ranking are built on a superior set-piece and an aggressive press defence. He identified the scrum as a primary tool for winning penalties and stated that an unmatched kicking game allows the team to create scoring opportunities through turnovers.

He concluded that dominating the All Blacks requires getting the defence, set-piece, and contestables right. Without these pillars, Mallett believes the Springboks will struggle against a New Zealand side that thrives on the very style of play the Boks must avoid.