Sir Steve Hansen: Springboks v All Blacks was a ‘key’ reason why neutral referees were brought in

The fierce Springboks-All Blacks rivalry “brings out the best in both countries” despite it leading to a refereeing change, according to Sir Steve Hansen.

The two nations, who have won a combined seven Rugby World Cup titles, are set to go head-to-head in a four-Test series, which starts later this month.

New Zealand arrived in South Africa last week and begin their campaign with a tour match against the Stormers this week, but it is all about preparing for those big games against Rassie Erasmus‘ men.

Intensity and respect

They are arguably the biggest rivals in the sport and the physicality and intensity will be off the charts when the internationals come around, but there is also a tremendous amount of respect between the two.

“I grew up waking up in the middle of the night and listening to it on the radio and the All Blacks-South African rivalry was a key indicator to why we got neutral referees,” Hansen said on the Rugby Unity podcast.

“There was always an argument about bias with the refereeing so they brought neutral referees in, but it’s been something that’s been going on a long time.

“I know from my own experience we really, really respected them as people and as rugby players. They’re fierce competitors but once they walk off the pitch, they’re happy to come and have a beer.

“It brings the best out in both countries.”

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While the All Blacks will take on the South African franchises in readiness for facing the Springboks, the only game for Erasmus’ side before the August 22 clash comes this weekend when they play Argentina.

The head coach has travelled to South America with a squad of 26, which contains a mixture of first team, fringe and young players.

It might not provide the perfect preparation for taking on New Zealand but Hansen believes there are other reasons the Boks have organised this game and selected the squad they have.

Looking at the World Cup

“It’s something he’s obviously thought about, him and the coaching group, and it’s another opportunity to give 26 people some exposure,” he added.

“With the top guys, he wants them to have a bit of rugby and he wants them to lead the young guys around and teach them about touring.

“We can’t forget that we’re less than 18 months away from the next World Cup, so he’s looking to the future all the time, as you have to.

“You can see with some of the selections in the All Blacks squad as well that they’re starting to look a little bit to the future.

“You have a responsibility as a coach to, yes, win today and develop your team for today, but you’ve also got to be able to develop your team for tomorrow, regardless of whether you’re there as a coach or not.”

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