All Blacks Legend Slams Springboks Despite Crushing Win: “Worst in a While”

 

[The Springboks in action against Italy. Image: @Springboks/X]

The Springboks may have delivered a dominant 45-0 shutout against Italy, but not everyone is convinced — especially All Blacks legend John Kirwan, who labelled the performance “the worst” he’s seen from South Africa in a while.

Speaking on The Rivals podcast, Kirwan – a known critic of the Boks – questioned the rhythm and intensity of the world champions’ recent matches, despite their unbeaten start to the 2025 season.

“I know they scored six or seven tries,” said Kirwan, “but I just didn’t feel they got into the real rhythm of their game.”

“Some of the players didn’t meet the level of the older guys. It was really revealing.”

His remarks come ahead of the Springboks' next clash — a physical test against Georgia this Saturday.

Springbok coach Rassie Erasmus acknowledged the challenge ahead, stressing that Georgia’s set pieces, mauls, and breakdowns would demand sharpness across all departments.

“They pride themselves on physicality,” said Erasmus.
“We must continue to lift our standards and build momentum.”

The Boks are chasing a fourth consecutive win, having already brushed past the Barbarians and Italy with ease — but criticism like Kirwan’s is a reminder that dominance on the scoreboard doesn’t always silence the doubters.

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📺 Kick-off: Saturday at 17:10 | Live on: SuperSport

Do you agree with Kirwan? Are the Springboks showing cracks — or just getting started?

Drop a comment or vote in the poll below! WhatsApp 069 977 9680.

Sources:

• The South African

• The Rivals Podcast

~BILLY JAYDEN LOUIS

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📌 Poll: Was the Springboks' 45-0 win over Italy as poor as Kirwan says?
🔘 Yes – It lacked rhythm and spark
🔘 No – A win is a win
🔘 Partly – Dominant but not sharp
🔘 Doesn’t matter – They’ll peak later
👉 Vote and have your say below!

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