During the podcast, Hansen highlighted the undeniable skill and physical prowess of the Springboks. "They’ve got some real good ball carriers; they’ve got guys right across the park who are strong over the ball and their goal-kicking has been exceptional in this series – Cheslin Kolbe has been unbelievably good," he stated.
"But probably the thing that impresses me the most about them is not the it’s not a rugby thing. It’s a team thing. Just how connected they are as a group and their sense of belonging to their country."
Hansen elaborated on the notion of unity within the Springboks, emphasizing how this connection fuels their defensive efforts. The former All Blacks coach pointed out that the Springboks' scramble defense is a direct result of their commitment not only to each other but to their nation as a whole, making them a formidable opponent on the field.
The conversation then shifted towards how this ethos of unity compares with the All Blacks' approach. Hansen reflected on times when the All Blacks resonated deeply with their national identity, creating a powerful bond with their supporters. This, he believes, is a vital component of both teams’ strategies, albeit achieved through different means.
The Springboks' depth and tactical acumen have been well noted throughout the series. However, Hansen sees their psychological edge as being equally important. "It’s well documented and rightly so that the Boks have got a wonderful bench and got a lot of depth, but there’s nothing in this Test series," Hansen observed. The minimal margins in the series results underscore the fierce competition between the teams, hinting at a close-knit All Blacks squad that has shown significant potential despite their brief time together.
"You can’t do that just with a flick of a switch and say, ‘I want us to be the nation’s team’; no, you got to earn the respect of the people who are your fans, and you earn that by what you do on the park, obviously, but you also earn it by the stuff you do off it and how you conduct yourself."
Hansen also pointed out the growth and maturity within the All Blacks team, emphasizing the importance of conduct both on and off the field in gaining national support. This ongoing development is critical as it builds a team that not only plays for victory but also embodies the spirit and expectations of their supporters.
In conclusion, while the tactical and physical elements of rugby remain crucial, Hansen’s insights reveal a deeper narrative. The bonds of unity and national pride, as fostered by coaches like Rassie Erasmus, create an intangible strength that can be just as decisive as any play executed on the field. This blend of skill, strategy, and spirit defines not just a team, but the essence of the sport itself.
