As the All Blacks prepare to face the Springboks in the Greatest Rivalry Test series, former New Zealand flanker Josh Kronfeld has urged fans and critics alike not to measure head coach Dave Rennie solely on the outcomes of these matches. This series, featuring three games in South Africa and one on neutral ground in the US, pits the formidable back-to-back world champion Springboks against the All Blacks, who have recently shown promising signs in the Nations Championship.
Kronfeld, understanding the high expectations typically set for the All Blacks, has set a more realistic bar, especially acknowledging the strength of their opponents. He believes the focus should not just be on winning but on how the team progresses under Rennie's leadership, particularly with the Rugby World Cup on the horizon.
"I'm not all about the win, I'm about how they present themselves, how the game pans out and if we get the win on top of that, I'm okay."
Kronfeld highlighted that Rennie’s primary objective is preparing the team for the upcoming World Cup in Australia. Despite stepping into the role with little over a year to the tournament, Rennie has been tasked with molding a competitive squad. Kronfeld appreciates the steps taken thus far and looks forward to continued growth.
"This deal that Rens is having to roll with, it’s a deal for the World Cup, it’s building just for that moment. We’ve pulled the pin on someone else who had a four-year tenure." He sees Rennie’s tenure as a critical building phase, aiming for a peak performance at the World Cup.
Kronfeld also recognizes the challenges Rennie faces, not necessarily expecting a series win against the Springboks, but hoping for competitive matches. He stresses the importance of maintaining close scores and avoiding one-sided games, which would demonstrate resilience and tactical acumen.
"If the game goes tight and we’re still scoring points, and they’re still scoring points, or we’re both stopping each other from getting over the line, and it comes down to the wire, that’s pretty close to a win."
Meanwhile, the Springboks are recognized as having significant firepower, with expectations that they might dominate. This perspective was echoed by former Springbok Beast Mtawarira, who noted that the Springboks' robust team could overwhelm the All Blacks.
Kronfeld wrapped up his thoughts by acknowledging the rough hand dealt to Rennie but commended his attitude towards team management and personal interactions. "It’s not super fair is it? But life isn’t fair and that’s what he’s taken on board and he’s definitely got a great aptitude towards how he deals with people, how he deals with his individuals."
The upcoming matches in the Greatest Rivalry Test series are not just a test of strength between two rugby powerhouses but also a significant phase in preparation for the World Cup. Both teams will surely look to assert their dominance, yet for the All Blacks under Rennie’s guidance, the series will be as much about building character and cohesion as it is about securing victories.
