On the Rugby Rivals podcast, Kirwan expressed his preference for New Zealand's adventurous style under coach Dave Rennie, though he found the Springboks' strategy less appealing.
"I love the style of play. For 15 minutes in the game, all the Springboks did was kick box kicks. Now let's talk about the philosophy of the game – the beautiful game, which is something that I think we all love. I don’t think South Africa are particularly playing that. I know they had to get the win, but sometimes the way they play frustrates."
Matfield was quick to highlight the virtues of diversity in rugby tactics, suggesting that the clash of styles enhances the rivalry between the two nations.
"Why? There are different ways of playing the game. Everyone doesn’t have to play it the way you do. In South Africa, we love a big scrum going over guys. I mean, box kick, winning it back – just hear the cheers. So can you just keep to your way of playing and we keep what we do, and let your style beat us then? You’re fine. Don’t tell us how to play the game."
Kirwan acknowledged the effectiveness of the South African approach but reaffirmed his personal disinterest.
"I don’t disagree with it, but it just bores me to tears."
Matfield retorted, defending the excitement found in South African rugby’s strategic play.
"That’s your problem. We love it. When you go 15 phases just across the field, just go left to right, left to right, don’t go anywhere, keep throwing, but nothing happens – doesn’t that bore you?"
Kirwan admitted that while the Springboks play to their traditional strengths superbly, he remains unapologetic about favoring the All Blacks' approach, which emphasizes a higher-risk, 15-man game. This difference in philosophy underscores the distinct identities each team brings to the field.
As both teams continue to evolve, their contrasting strategies are sure to keep their matchups thrilling for fans and purists alike, each bringing a unique flavor to the venerable rugby pitch.
