Rugby’s Greatest Rivalry is heading towards an exciting first test on Saturday in Ellis Park and here is your daily update of all the biggest rugby news.
Rassie and the referee press conference
Rassie Erasmus set up the strange press conference with Jaco Peyper from head-to-toe in Springboks gear, where the pair talked through several points ahead of the first test with the All Blacks. Erasmus admitted that he would reveal his team on Thursday “out of respect” for the All Blacks. One interesting point of debate came when the pair were asked about the South African sides slowing down play, particularly at the lineout. Peyper clarified the law, sharing that teams had 30 seconds from the point that the mark is given to form the lineout and in that time, teams could do anything they like. A few interesting examples were given. The referee said teams could pray or huddle. Rassie then interjected, making reference to the fact that 11 languages are spoken in South Africa and therefore the lineout call needs to be given in 11 languages.
Saula Ma’u called up to the All Blacks squad
Highlanders prop Saula Ma’u has been called up to the All Blacks as a replacement for Ollie Norris, who has picked up a knee injury that will keep him out for up to six weeks. Ma’u played for Otago on Saturday as they defeated Manawatu in round three of the NPC last weekend.
DMac spotted in training
Damian McKenzie has been spotted in training for the All Blacks and this provides a positive for Dave Rennie’s squad who hadn’t trained since he picked up an ankle injury against the Sharks.
Rennie had commented that he was still in line to start, but it would depend on how he was able to train.
