Steve Hansen makes feelings clear on Springboks ‘cheating’ scrum accusation

Friday, 04 September 2026 at 16:24

bySteven Smith

Sir Steve Hansen has weighed in on the growing scrum controversy surrounding the Springboks, admitting he does not believe any international side truly scrummages straight.

The debate has become one of the major talking points of Rugby’s Greatest Rivalry, with the All Blacks accusing South Africa of illegally “walking around” at scrum time.

, Hansen was asked whether he believed the Springboks were guilty of walking around at scrum time.

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Dave Rennie first raised the issue following the opening Test at Ellis Park before doubling down after New Zealand’s defeat in Cape Town.

His comments prompted an angry response from Springboks boss Rassie Erasmus, while South Africa scrum coach Daan Human has also strongly rejected suggestions his pack is using illegal tactics.

Hansen gives his verdict

Now former All Blacks head coach Hansen has had his say – and the 2015 Rugby World Cup winner appears far less convinced that South Africa are doing anything particularly unusual.

Speaking on the Rugby Unity podcast

“I don’t know. I don’t think any team scrums straight,” Hansen said.

“So they’ll deny it, and the All Blacks will say they are. So, what does it matter what we think? It’s all about the referee, really, and what he’s thinking.”

Hansen did, however, point out that the laws require packs to remain square.

“The rules do say you’ve got to stay square.”

His comments effectively put the responsibility back on the officials rather than either coaching team, with Hansen suggesting the scrum battle is ultimately determined by what the referee is prepared to allow.

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