Irish TV pundit Matt Williams issues 'karma' tweet for Springboks

Outspoken Australian rugby coach and Irish TV rugby pundit Matt Williams was a vocal critic of the Springboks’ 7-1 bench selection ahead of their clash with Ireland.

Williams first criticised the move after the Springboks win over the All Blacks, saying that they were “abusing” the purpose of the bench which was brought in for safety reasons.

Ahead of the Pool B crunch match between Ireland and South Africa, Williams doubled down on his position claiming it was not “morally correct” with claims that the lower levels of the game would replicate the tactic with adverse consequences.

Springboks Director of Rugby Rassie Erasmus responded to Williams during the week, “I am also over 50 but I don’t understand what your point is and how you got to your “conclusion”, and invited the pundit to listen to a podcast.

After Ireland’s 13-8 victory over South Africa, Williams took to Twitter with a short message for South Africa implying that “rugby karma” played a part in their misfortune.

7-1 and a crooked throw in…..Rugby Karma.

— Matt Williams (@MattRCNM) September 23, 2023

His tweet “7-1 and a crooked throw in…. Rugby Karma” referred to a late throw by flanker-turned-hooker Deon Fourie which was called not straight with the Springboks pressing from five metres out.

It was a crucial throw with Ireland hanging on near their own goal line.

The 7-1 bench immediately provided impact by winning a scrum penalty on the first attempt which led to a try to Cheslin Kolbe, but the scrum dominance witnessed against 14-man New Zealand did not eventuate.

The reserves gave away two costly scrum penalties which led directly to six points to Ireland.

The Springboks pack had a chance to win the game on the final play with another driving maul but Ireland held strong and the maul collapsed.

Referee Ben O’Keeffe adjudged the ball not to be available immediately and correctly called a scrum to Ireland which ended the game.