The concept of the ‘bomb squad’ first came into the rugby conversation when the Springboks utilised a 6-2 forwards-to-backs split on the bench during the 2019 World Cup, while this was elevated even further in recent times when Rassie Erasmus occasionally opted for a 7-1 substitutes set up.
Although there have been some critics of this tactic – mainly from overseas pundits – there have been a number of other clubs and countries who have begun to experiment with a bench that is also packed with forwards, coupled with versatile backs.
Now, according to The Telegraph, England are planning to also try out a 7-1 split as coach Steve Borthwick apparently wants to be able to include as many back-rowers as possible in his match-day squad considering this is an area where they have plenty of depth.
In aiming for maximum flexibility, it’s also reported that Borthwick is training props to deputise at hooker, while also prioritising some players who have the ability to cover more than one position.
It all sounds a bit familiar, doesn’t it?
The Springboks and England will face each other later this year
As part of recent World Rugby workshops looking at law changes, it was stated that the governing body was looking at the role of the replacements.
In what will come as a huge relief to the Springboks and their fans, World Rugby’s chief executive, Alan Gilpin, told The Guardian that there are no medical grounds to outlaw this bench configuration.
“We looked at it from a science, medicine perspective. Was there a distinctive view that a bunch of fresh players coming on with 20‑30 minutes to go is going to create a more injurious position, and the science said that’s not the case.
“So there was no reason from that perspective to look at how we might do replacements differently. Ultimately, there are a lot of different ways to win a rugby match.”
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