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Rennie relentless about ‘sideways’ Boks

All Blacks boss Dave Rennie is appealing to World Rugby’s decision-makers to simplify scrum laws and address the set-piece tactics of the Springboks.

Published: Sunday, 4 October 2026 at 1:53 PM
Rennie relentless about ‘sideways’ Boks
Key Things to Know
  • Dave Rennie urged World Rugby to simplify scrum laws and address alleged sideways scrummaging by the Springboks.
  • Rennie claimed South African tightheads shear in at 45-degree angles against New Zealand's loosehead props.
  • Springboks coach Rassie Erasmus and scrum coach Daan Human denied the accusations, insisting their technique is legal.
The Story in 60 Seconds

All Blacks head coach Dave Rennie has called on World Rugby to simplify scrum laws and scrutinize the scrummaging tactics of the Springboks. Speaking on Newstalk ZB, Rennie reiterated his complaints that South African tightheads walk sideways at a 45-degree angle. He also criticized the 2024 brake foot stipulation, arguing that the rule adds unnecessary complexity for referees without offering practical value.

Springboks coach Rassie Erasmus and scrum coach Daan Human previously rejected Rennie's claims, maintaining that South Africa scrums legally. Rennie indicated that scrum regulations will be discussed at an upcoming World Rugby conference in London ahead of the All Blacks' Nations Championship match against Scotland on November 7.

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