Springboks report All Blacks to World Rugby as war of words escalates

The latest issue surrounds the All Blacks’ use of so-called ‘seatbelt’ tackles when attempting to strip the ball from Springbok carriers.

There have been reports that the Springboks have raised concerns about the technique, amid fears it can result in high tackles, head contact and neck rolls.

It adds another layer of intrigue ahead of the latest meeting between rugby’s greatest rivals – particularly after New Zealand made an approach of their own to World Rugby.

All Blacks head coach Dave Rennie confirmed this week that New Zealand had spoken to World Rugby about South Africa’s scrum following their opening Test.

New Zealand conceded a number of penalties at the set-piece despite eventually fighting back to claim a 33-16 victory.

Rennie said the All Blacks had brought scrum issues to the attention of the governing body and wanted South Africa forced to scrum square rather than being allowed to step sideways and work around their opponents.

The latest intervention from the Springboks therefore gives the build-up a tit-for-tat feel, with both camps now highlighting areas of the opposition’s game ahead of the rematch.

South Africa's latest concern centres on the way New Zealand defenders attempt to wrap high around the ball carrier and dislodge possession.

It is not the first time the Springbok camp has highlighted concerns over the All Blacks' physical approach during the current series.

Ahead of the opening Test, assistant coach Felix Jones revealed South African franchises had raised concerns about New Zealand's breakdown work, including what he described as tucked-shoulder and non-wrapping actions.

Jones stressed that South Africa had no problem with New Zealand bringing physicality, but wanted that physicality to remain within the laws.

The latest concern is particularly relevant given World Rugby's laws surrounding dangerous tackles.

Under Law 9, a player must not tackle an opponent early, late or dangerously, while World Rugby specifically states that dangerous tackling includes contact above the line of the shoulders.

World Rugby has also introduced a Head Contact Process designed to protect players when incidents involving contact with the head, neck or throat occur.

With both camps now highlighting aspects of their opponent's game, there will be plenty of attention on the referee and his officiating team when the rivalry resumes.