JOHANNESBURG - Springbok coach Rassie Erasmus' "traffic light" system is courting controversy with some fans debating the fairness of the strategy.
The Director of Rugby was seen holding up LED torches at Stade Velodrome during South Africa's 18-3 win over Scotland in their Pool B Rugby World Cup opener in Marseille.
Erasmus has previously faced criticism for his off-field antics.
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He was suspended from a number of matches in 2022 following his criticising refereeing decisions during the Springboks' November tour.
He has also been suspended by World Rugby for an infamous hour-long video criticising referee Nic Berry's performance in the first Test between the Springboks and the British and Irish Lions in 2021.
Springbok great John Smit has previously called Erasmus' criticism of refereeing decisions "hard to defend" and said his conduct makes the national team "easy to dislike".
His traffic light strategy has drawn passionate defence from rugby fans on social media.
Did Rassie Erasmus steal the last two working traffic lights in South Africa and take it to the #RWC2023? WTF? #RSAvsSCO #Springboks
— Jack's Inky Arm (@JacksInkyArm) September 10, 2023
If the traffic lights have nothing to do with coaching, why were Felix Jones and Rassie Erasmus the ones holding up the lights?
— Rúaidhrí O'Connor (@RuaidhriOC) September 11, 2023
Never dull with the world champions https://t.co/gN6Wuiban3
Rassie Erasmus will always be one step ahead. Challenging the narrative. We’ve seen it in post match opinions, 7-1 bench and now the traffic light system. He continuously finds ways to be a step ahead. Most (non Bok fans) will hate him, but you can’t deny his brilliance.
— Darren (@SaffasRugby) September 11, 2023
Just a few more thoughts on the #RSAvsSCO game.
— Front Row Rugby (@FrontRowRugbyXV) September 10, 2023
Last one ...
People moaning about Rassie and his traffic light system.
Well what's the difference between that and the "more traditional" radio comms system where they all have a mic and ear phones?
Much ado about nothing! pic.twitter.com/48A0sxdDvz
I think Rassie has now gone too far with his traffic light messaging.#RSAvSCO pic.twitter.com/D9a78V8hhM
— Æthelstan for the win (@AtticumFloreat) September 10, 2023