South Africa: Jacques Nienaber hits back
Jacques Nienaber comes out fighting against criticism of Rassie Erasmus in particular, and also against criticism of his team's style of play
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After the defeat by France at the Vélodrome, South African rugby's director of rugby, Rassie Erasmus, vented his anger at the officiating on social media. It earned him a two-match suspension from World Rugby. The governing body takes the view that what is said between officials and the various coaches should remain private. The situation has irritated the Springboks head coach, Jacques Nienaber, who did not hold back on the subject at a press conference ahead of Saturday's game against England.
"Unfortunately we can't discuss it, that's just the way it is, but we know the facts and we share them with the players and within the group" said Nienaber. He also said his position does not allow him to make certain information public, as he is bound by confidentiality rules. He went on: "If all the facts were out there, I think people would have a different opinion."
Nienaber calls for respect for his team
However, Jacques Nienaber did not stop there. The head coach, a world champion with South Africa in 2019, also responded to questions about his team's style of play, with some observers finding them too defensive.
"We can't control the narrative that's put out there that we are boring and we don't attack, that we just kick and tackle. Whether we will ever get respect, I don't know, but as long as we are comfortable with what we are offering here and trying to achieve, and that we are open and honest with each other as a group" Jacques Nienaber added. Message delivered.