Erasmus fires back at All Blacks’ ‘slow game’ claims ahead of Ellis Park test

Johannesburg (AP) — The upcoming South Africa vs. New Zealand test at Ellis Park has become a battleground of rhetoric, with both teams engaging in a "phony war." While New Zealand has claimed the Springboks deliberately slow down the game, Springboks coach Rassie Erasmus dismissed those allegations. Erasmus pointed to recent test matches, noting that New Zealand won 24-17 in Auckland and South Africa won 43-10 in Wellington.

Referee Jaco Peyper, who refereed 67 tests, including many involving the All Blacks, clarified that teams have 30 seconds to form a set-piece after the referee marks the spot. He emphasized that teams can do anything within those 30 seconds, provided they adhere to the laws. Erasmus acknowledged the All Blacks' mind games were born out of World Rugby changing protocols around pre-match meetings.

New Zealand captain Siya Kolisi and prop Ox Nche are expected to be available for the test, while Erasmus awaited the recovery of SIya Kolisi and prop Ox Nche.