ITALY

It's a penalty: World Rugby clarify rules following controversial Bok kickoff

World Rugby has issued a statement clarifying the rules around the Springboks' innovative kickoff against Italy, suggesting a penalty should have been given.

18 Jul 2025

Jasper Wiese to miss start of Rugby Championship after receiving four-game suspension

Springbok number eight Jasper Wiese has been banned for four matches following his red card in the victory over Italy in Gqeberha.

15 Jul 2025

Rassie Erasmus defends Springboks' tactics amid criticism over sportsmanship

Springboks head coach Rassie Erasmus has responded strongly to allegations that the team's recent strategies used in the match against Italy violate the spirit of rugby.

15 Jul 2025

'Pretty innovative': All Blacks boss Scott Robertson weighs in on Boks' new tactics

All Blacks coach Scott Robertson has weighed in on the Springboks' latest tactical innovations revealed in last weekend's win over Italy.

15 Jul 2025

Boks' bold kickoff tactic upsets Italy coach, but maul innovation wins praise

South Africa's surprise decision to kick off Saturday's Test by deliberately infringing and handing Italy a scrum drew criticism from Italy head coach Gonzalo Quesada.

14 Jul 2025

Rassie reveals Boks' set-piece innovation was straight out of schoolboy rugby

Rassie Erasmus has lifted the lid on the creative thinking behind the Springboks' innovative line-out and maul tactic that helped unlock Italy's defence.

14 Jul 2025