Shimange, the former hooker for the Springboks, vehemently dismissed the notion that the Springbok scrum has been underperforming. He suggested that there is an ongoing agenda to undermine the strength of the Springbok scrum.
"We generally go straight through the middle," Shimange stated. "It’s never been a Springbok strategy. I just think what they’re trying to do is depower the scrum."
He further mentioned the longstanding dominance of the South African scrum, citing prominent players and dismissing any claims of inefficiency in their approach.
"We’ve had Beast [Mtawarira], we’ve had Ox Nché ... there’s no way we’re walking around. That’s just, for me [not true]."
Turning to another contentious issue, Schalk Burger weighed in on Lood de Jager’s high hit on Leroy Carter, contrasting it with a similar incident involving an All Blacks player from a previous game.
"There’s definitely mitigating circumstances," Burger explained. "Leroy Carter moves, he’s reasonably low, but then it’s a head on head; his shoulder hits him on the chest. The margins are so fine."
Burger advocated for a more lenient approach to such incidents, reflecting a traditional view on rugby's physicality and how penalties should be applied in these scenarios.
"Guys, my view is it’s a penalty. Penalty only. It’s always been my outlook on it. I’m old school … I’d be happy if this just stays penalties."
Both former players highlighted the pressures that come with yellow cards in crucial matches, pointing out the impact on team performance when reduced to 14 men.
The discussion on the podcast sheds light on the complexities and nuances of modern rugby, highlighting the fine line between fair play and penalization. It also underscores the pride and resilience of a team renowned for its formidable scrum and tactical prowess on the international stage.
This commentary not only reflects the ongoing debates within the sport but also the passionate defense of national pride and strategy by its celebrated players.
