Sign in Subscribe
Rugby football

England Seek Clarity on New Zealand's Scrmmaging Technique Ahead of Second Test

Strategic Insights

— 2 min read

England captain Jamie George has spoken about the team's concerns regarding New Zealand's scrmmaging technique, particularly the action of loosehead Ethan De Groot in the first Test. Experts have questioned the legality of De Groot's action, and England head coach Steve Borthwick has sought feedback from World Rugby on the matter. England have made one enforced change to their team, with loosehead prop Fin Baxter starting in place of the injured Joe Marler, while scrum-half Finlay Christie comes in for TJ Perenara for New Zealand.

Key Takeaways:

  • England have received feedback from World Rugby on New Zealand's scrummaging technique, specifically regarding Ethan De Groot's action in the first Test.
  • Experts, including Telegraph Sport columnist Brian Moore, have questioned the legality of De Groot's action, which helped give New Zealand the upper hand at the scrum.
  • England head coach Steve Borthwick will speak to referee Nic Berry tonight to relay their concerns and seek clarity on the issue.
  • England captain Jamie George has expressed confidence in referee Nic Berry making the right call in the second Test, while also highlighting the need for the team to control what they can control during the scrum.
  • The team has been focusing on technical improvements to make the scrum clearer and more effective.
  • England have made one enforced change to their team, with loosehead prop Fin Baxter starting in place of the injured Joe Marler, while scrum-half Finlay Christie comes in for TJ Perenara for New Zealand.

Key Players and Programs:

  • Ethan De Groot, New Zealand loosehead prop, whose action has been questioned by experts.
  • Fin Baxter, England loosehead prop, who makes his first start for England in place of the injured Joe Marler.
  • Finlay Christie, New Zealand scrum-half, who comes in for TJ Perenara for the All Blacks.
  • England head coach Steve Borthwick, who has sought feedback from World Rugby on New Zealand's scrummaging technique.
  • England captain Jamie George, who has expressed confidence in referee Nic Berry making the right call in the second Test.

Statistics:

  • England have not won a Test in New Zealand since 2003.
  • The All Blacks are defending a 30-year unbeaten record at Eden Park.
  • 17 minutes into the first Test, Fin Baxter was thrown on for his debut when Joe Marler suffered a foot injury.
  • England's most capped male forward, Dan Cole, will become so if he comes on as a replacement in the second Test.
  • Bevan Rodd comes into the matchday squad as a replacement for England.

Sources:

  • Telegraph Sport
  • World Rugby
  • BBC Sport
  • Stuff.co.nz
  • New Zealand Herald
  • ESPN Scrum

Read more