Springboks: RG Snyman reveals Bok lineout secrets behind World Cup triumph

The Chasing the Sun 2 documentary series is just one episode in, but it has already produced some brilliant nuggets from the behind-the-scenes look into the Boks’ journey to defend their title.

In a new snippet from the docuseries, Snyman discusses the Springboks’ lineout, which proved pivotal to their success during the tournament.

The lineout, a cornerstone of their strategy, was responsible for 10 of their 25 tries at the World Cup, including Snyman’s pivotal score in the semi-final victory over England.

“It’s a great attacking opportunity for us,” Snyman said when asked how closely they guard their lineout calls.

“So if someone else knows exactly what you’re gonna call, then it makes it way easier for them and it takes away half of your attack attacking options. So you keep those cards very close to your chest.”

The powerhouse lock, who is currently plying his trade with Munster in the URC and is set to join Leinster next season, went on to explain the processes the Boks went through to ensuring their success at the set-piece during the World Cup.

“So throughout the World Cup, it was myself, Sous [Franco Mostert] and Marvin [Orie] who sat together to decide what calls we’re going with this week,” Snyman explained.

“Obviously, we sat with Coach Deon [Davids] as well, and we would analyse the other team and see what they do defensive-wise in the lineout, and then we’d make a decision on what will work best and if we maybe need to bring in an extra option.”

The lock adds that the collaborative nature of those conversations paid dividends for the Springboks, who benefited from having more eyes on the lineout.

“I really like that dynamic of us four working together because you get different perspectives,” he explained.

“Because we all look at the same thing, but you get four different perspectives on what happens, and then it’s a bit of a conversation to decide what we’re going to do.

“And I think that gets us the best result and gets the best out of all of us.”