All Blacks coach Dave Rennie won't let Springbok mind games distract the side
All Blacks coach Dave Rennie is focusing on his team's preparation for a match against the Springboks at Ellis Park, dismissing attempts at psychological warfare. Players are drawing motivation from historical victories as they prepare for a challenging test in South Africa.
Why it matters
This match represents a high-stakes international rugby fixture between two of the sport's most storied rivals, highlighting the psychological and physical demands of elite competition.
All Blacks coach Dave Rennie is refusing to engage in any mind games as he prepares his side to take on the World Champion Springboks at Ellis Park.
Rennie has named his side for Sunday morning's match and there is an air of quiet confidence among the All Blacks and their fans in Johannesburg.
"Belief is a massive part of it. You're going to Ellis Park to play the Springboks , it's almost their mecca. But we're really excited by the challenge," Rennie said.
That challenge involves not letting the team be distracted by any mind games the Springboks might play , such as publicly accusing the All Blacks of cheating at the breakdown.
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