Rassie Erasmus has refused to reignite controversy over refereeing after the Springboks’ narrow 24-17 defeat to the All Blacks in Auckland, choosing not to publicly criticise English official Karl Dickson.
South Africa pushed hard in the closing stages, chasing a converted try to level the match, but their momentum was halted by a crucial Ardie Savea turnover near the line. The result extended New Zealand’s extraordinary unbeaten run at Eden Park to 51 games.
With the Springboks now in Wellington preparing for Saturday’s rematch, Erasmus faced questions at his Monday media briefing about Dickson’s late-game performance. A reporter suggested the referee appeared hesitant to penalise the All Blacks under the weight of protecting Eden Park’s streak, asking whether Erasmus had sent a review video to World Rugby referees chief Joel Jutge.
Mindful of his past suspensions for criticising officials, Erasmus declined to take the bait. He instead offered what he called a “politically correct answer,” noting that while both sides were penalised 10 times, South Africa came away with the only yellow card of the contest.
The restrained response marked a notable contrast to Erasmus’ history of outspoken remarks, as the Springboks attempt to move forward and focus on the Wellington showdown.
