Botha Warns SA Against Dave Rennie’s New-Look New Zealand
South Africa will head into their upcoming series against the All Blacks as favourites, but Springbok great Bakkies Botha has warned against underestimating a New Zealand side still finding its identity under new head coach Dave Rennie.
While backing the Springboks to continue their recent success, Botha believes the All Blacks remain an unpredictable force as they build towards next year’s Rugby World Cup.
“I think the Boks will definitely be the favourites going into the series, but I must say with Dave Rennie in charge as the new head coach of the All Blacks, it’s unpredictable at this stage,” said the 2007 Rugby World Cup winner.
“We’ve watched a few games under the new coach, but I still believe they are finding their feet as a squad and they’ll discover what works best for them heading into next year’s World Cup.”
The former enforcer, who earned 85 Test caps for the Springboks, credited head coach Rassie Erasmus for creating an environment where meticulous planning and exceptional squad depth continue to drive South Africa’s success.
“Rassie ensures that no box goes unticked, and we’ll be ready with our incredible depth in South African rugby,” he said.
“I believe there is no country in the world with the depth that we have, and what’s happening in our rugby is amazing.”
The 46-year-old believes South Africa’s greatest strength lies not only in the quality of its players but also in the number of international-calibre options available throughout the squad.
Although some observers have questioned the Springboks’ depth at lock, Botha dismissed those concerns, arguing that the modern game has evolved beyond rigid positional roles.
“To be honest, I don’t see lock as a specialist position,” he said.
“A number six can play at five, a number five can play at four, so it’s become very versatile. Flanks can play lock and vice versa.”
He believes the emergence of multi-skilled forwards has transformed the role.
“There are also so many hybrid players now. For me, a hybrid is someone who can play lock, flank and cover the number eight position.”
Botha pointed to recent performances as evidence that the Springboks have more than enough quality to cope with injuries while maintaining their high standards.
“Pieter-Steph du Toit came in for Eben, who was injured, stepped in as captain and produced a massive performance,” he said.
“Cobus Wiese has had some amazing games and has definitely taken his chance. There isn’t a problem at lock. There will always be a plan when Rassie is there.”
He also praised Ruben van Heerden following his Test debut, saying the towering forward had earned his opportunity after years of consistent performances at franchise level.
“I’m happy for Ruben. He has been at the Bulls and the Stormers for several seasons.”
With just over a year until the next Rugby World Cup, Botha believes the focus is now on identifying which emerging players can cement their places in the national setup.
“So many players are entering the fray now and, with the next World Cup just over a year away, it’s about seeing how many youngsters will put their hands up and stake a claim for a place in the squad.”
Among the newcomers who have impressed Botha is loose forward Paul de Villiers, whose work at the breakdown has caught the eye of the former Springbok lock.
“A guy like Paul de Villiers is such an amazing player,” said Botha.
“He has a low centre of gravity and makes a huge difference at the breakdown and in the turnover battle. He can slow down the opposition’s ball at the breakdown, which gives the defensive line time to get into position.”
