Braam van Straaten
Most pundits would feel that expansive, all-out attacking play is what results in most tries. Or perhaps counter-attacking from turnovers.
However, in-depth analysis seems to suggest something very different.
Springbok Braam van Straaten says kicking for territory could become an even greater part of the game in this World Cup year.
Van Straaten, who played flyhalf and centre for the Springboks in 21 Tests from 1999 to 2001, said teams have done an enormous amount of analyses on where the most tries are being scored from.
“It comes from line-outs in the opposition territory, where the driving maul plays a big role,” he said, adding: “The focus is likely to shift to a tactic where the team or teams will attempt to get the ball behind the opposition, force them to kick out and then have an attacking line-out.”
He said ultimately a combination of factors will determine which teams come out on top in this year’s Super Rugby combination, but he has no doubt the New Zealand teams will again have a good run.
“I truly hope the South African teams change like the Lions changed last year- where they looked at the skills of players and how they can shift the ball into space,” Van Straaten said.
“We saw the results it brought them in the Currie Cup and I hope they persist with that, that they don’t become conservative, that they play what is in front of them and not get caught up too much in a set pattern.
“I truly hope we see a bit more adventurous play and teams shifting the ball a bit more.
“I believe Johan Ackermann has a good recipe and he has some very willing players, who put their bodies on the line.
“When I played with Johan, at number of teams, he was always the player who worked the hardest and he is following that same recipe.
“It is about getting the players to play for each other and in that regard Johan is doing a great job – I hope for his sake that they have a great season.”
rugby365