Springboks' Rassie Erasmus explains decision to skip referee meeting ahead of Cape Town Test
Despite sharing a post-match beer with All Blacks coach Dave Rennie, Rassie Erasmus believes joint referee meetings compromise tactical secrecy ahead of big matches.
Rassie Erasmus, the head coach of the Springboks, has explained his decision not to meet with Georgian referee Nika Amashukeli prior to the second Test against the All Blacks in Cape Town. This decision was also made by the All Blacks' head coach, Dave Rennie, not to meet English referee Matthew Carley before the first Test at Ellis Park, where the Springboks emerged victorious with a score of 33-16.
This decision is a result of World Rugby's new pre-match referee protocol, which limits the feedback that coaching staff can provide to officials. Previously, coaching teams had the freedom to give unlimited feedback to referees, but this was reduced to uploading a maximum of six clips and accompanying notes to World Rugby’s Athlete Management System (AMS).
Erasmus expressed his opinion that it would be nearly impossible to discuss any concerns with the referee while the opposing coach was present. He argued that any discussion would be rendered ineffective, as the opposing coach would be aware of the Springboks' strategies. Erasmus emphasized that the element of surprise would be lost, and tactics could be easily revealed during such a meeting.
He also clarified that his relationship with Dave Rennie is cordial, and they plan to catch up for a beer in Cape Town, but without the referee present.
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