New Zealand is a new breed of both players and coaches. They play fast, exhilarating, play-based support rugby. Ireland was supposed to offer a stiff challenge but failed to match the All-Blacks’ tempo last Saturday (July 17) in a 40-21 loss. Andy Farrell, the Ireland coach, was full of praise for All Blacks coach Dave Rennie but knows his side will need to play with greater fluency if they are to compete strongly in next season’s World Cup in Australia.
Australia easily disposed of an Italian side riddled with problems 57-10. Their coach Gonzalo Quesada has been banned for two games and several top players are injured, including star centre Menoncello. Australia is developing a competitive squad, and home advantage will spur them on next season.
France swept aside a resurgent Japan 15-42 and remains a dominant squad. Many of their top stars are not on this trip, but this has not affected their style of play. A year out from the World Cup, their young players are beginning to blossom.
Fiji, without a home stadium, had to play Scotland at Murrayfield. Well into the second half, Fiji was in front. But a new-look Scotland side with nine changes eventually got on top to win 33-17.
Wales arrived in Durban to face a new-look Springboks team but made little impact, barely getting out of their own half. A 43-0 result could have been double against arguably a Springbok third choice team. Wales has much to do in all aspects of the game to win some matches at the 2027 World Cup.
Having beaten England in the football semi-final at the FIFA World Cup, Argentina’s fervour switched to the rugby field. Seemingly, the hatred generated by the Falklands War still festers in Argentina. In a spiteful game, England was reduced to 13 men at one point, while Argentina was denied a last-minute try that could have drawn the game. Chaos erupted and an early departure flight was recommended. England won 31-24.
The next round of matches takes place in November in the Northern Hemisphere.
Meanwhile, club teams around the World now begin to focus on pre-season preparation.
To keep your rugby juices flowing, the All Blacks embark on a four-test tour of South Africa. Put Aug 22 in your rugby memory bank as it’s the date of the first test. This is more than a rugby match. Nationalistic pride is on the line.
Wherever you live, enjoy your rugby.
The Global Rugby Coach, Mike Penistone, is a globally renowned professional rugby coach based in Phuket who is also an ambassador for the Asia Center Foundation, a charity for disadvantaged children. For more information visit: www.rugbycoachingconsultancy.com.