Springbok defence coach Jerry Flannery said the onus is on him to build on predecessor Jacques Nienaber’s solid foundation with the back-to-back world champions.
Former Ireland hooker Flannery has been appointed to run South Africa’s defence under Rassie Erasmus following Nienaber’s departure after the 2023 Rugby World Cup.
The trio worked together when Erasmus and Nienaber were coaching Munster in 2017 and Flannery, previously serving as Harlequins’ defence coach, spent time with the Boks during their pre-World Cup camp last year.
Speaking during a Bok conference on Tuesday, the 45-year-old acknowledged the strategic blueprint that Nienaber has already mapped out while emphasising his plan over the next four years.
“There’s no pressure [jokes]! When I was at Munster and Rassie and Jacques came in, he [Nienaber] was just incredible, and Rassie spoke about his incredible work ethic,” Flannery told reporters.
“I’m very fortunate, and the Springboks are very fortunate, for the foundation that Jacques has put in and anything positive that happens from here is going to be built on that foundation.
ALSO: Honiball inspires new Bok attack guru
“And anything that goes wrong is all on me! I’m going to build and add to that … I can’t be Jacques, and if I tried to be him I’d be a poor imitation. But I can be Jerry and I bring what I bring to the table.”
He plans to identify key trends in the game where the Boks can improve and evolve without deviating from their traditional strengths.
“Because of the Springboks’ success in the World Cup, they have a big target on their back,” he added. “We must therefore continue to develop, on defence, on attack, our kicking game, and fixed phases continuously.
“The [defence] coach’s job is to create a picture that will give you clarity if you might be unsure about how the system works.
“Then it’s about the movement patterns on the pitch… getting players used to what is expected of them within the structure.
“An example is the drift defence where there is not a big onus on players to get into position early, because you are naturally going to be more passive.
“When it comes to shoot-up defence, more of players’ skills are put to the test because you have to rob your opponents of time and space. However, it also requires you to be much fitter than with other defence systems.”
Photo: Ashley Vlotman/Gallo Images
The post Flannery ‘not Jacques but I can be Jerry’ appeared first on SA Rugby magazine.
Src: sarugbymag.co.za
