VIDEO: The Springboks and Los Pumas have more in common than just playing for the title of the Rugby Championship in Mbombela on Saturday.
Both teams have New Zealanders as backline coaches and ironically, the two even played together for the Highlanders for a year or so.
Kendrik (Kenny) Lynn joined the Pumas in June this year while Tony Brown was appointed as the Boks’ attack coach at the same time.
The 41-year-old Lynn, a 37-game Highlanders representative (2009-2012), returned to the franchise as an attack coach in 2024 after spending his late playing and early coaching years with Lyon in France.
Lynn and Brown played together for the Highlanders between 2009 and 2011, after which Brown retired and transitioned into coaching.
During the 2011 season, Lynn played every minute of every game for the Highlanders. He also represented the All Blacks in Sevens.
Lynn played for Lyon from 2014-2016 before making his debut as their skills coach and impressing the club enough to have been part of the coaching roster for the last seven seasons culminating in his appointment as head coach in 2023.
Ironically Lynn replaced another New Zealander at the Los Pumas, Bradley Moar.
Asked about Brown and his influence on the Springboks, Lynn told reporters at a training session in White River where the Los Pumas have been preparing since Monday, that they know each other well.
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“I actually know Tony well. We actually lived 15 minutes from each other.
“What Tony has changed is that they play with more width. You see the keenness to move the ball, especially on turnovers once they get momentum on the edge.
“Also a little bit more ball playing with their forwards, and as well the use of shorter line-outs,” Lynn said.
“With Tony, you always know there is going to be a trick play. You don’t know where it is going to come, but last week, you saw that kick over the back with Cobus Reinach.
“There’s always going to be little things like that that he brings.”
“Felipe’s been really great. We have a clear DNA and a way of playing. One thing I felt when I arrived fresh is that the boys have so much passion for the jersey and their country.
