Springboks storm past Georgia in Mbombela but still a work in progress
The Springboks bagged nine tries as they overwhelmed Georgia 55-10 at Mbombela Stadium on Saturday, even though the performance wasn't always perfect.
It's a penalty: World Rugby clarify rules following controversial Bok kickoff
The Boks' coaching team continues to push the boundaries of the sport and it's rulebook. In the second Test against Italy in Gqeberha last Saturday, Manie Libbok's kickoff went straight to an offside Andre Esterhuizen. Referee Andrew Brace signalled a scrum to Italy - as per the laws - and it was clear that that is exactly what the World Champions wanted.
The move has divided rugby fans and pundits alike, with one camp hailing the innovation and the other going as far as saying the Boks are cheating.
It only took World Rugby five days to clarify the ruling. The governing body released a statement on Thursday, which revealed that Law 9.7 comes into play in this instance.
"Laws 12.5 and 12.6 set out the sanctions where the ball unintentionally fails to go 10m or a player overruns their teammate at the kick-off/restart," it read.
"However, if match officials believe this is done deliberately, then Law 9.7a should be applied."
Rule 9.7 states that "A player must not: a. Intentionally infringe any law of the game.
Sanction: Penalty."
The statement was in response to a rule clarification request issued by the Italian Rugby Federation following their 45-0 loss last Saturday.
This is not the first time the Boks Brains Trust has tested the laws. In the 2023 Rugby World Cup quarterfinal against France, fullback Damian Willemse called a mark, then indicated a scrum. World Rugby changed that rule shortly after.
The Boks' midfield lineout - where players lift a jumper in general play and setup a maul - has also come under public scrutiny and could be next in line for World Rugby's conformists.
'I still want to be there': Siya Kolisi confirms he's eyeing World Cup three-peat in 2027
Siya Kolisi says he still wants to be part of the Springbok setup when they chase a third consecutive Rugby World Cup title in Australia in 2027.
Captain Siya Kolisi pumped to be back in the green and gold
Springbok captain Siya Kolisi is thrilled to be back leading the Boks for the first time this season at the Mbombela Stadium against Georgia on Saturday.
Aphelele Fassi eager to express himself in front of electric Mbombela crowd
Springbok fullback Aphelele Fassi described the Mbombela crowd as "special" as he prepares to run out against Georgia on Saturday.