Carlos Spencer has lauded former teammate Tony Brown’s influence on the Springboks while admitting New Zealand rugby misses South African sides in Super Rugby.

Brown, a former All Blacks flyhalf and widely regarded as one of the game’s sharpest attacking minds, joined Rassie Erasmus’ coaching staff at the start of 2024. Since then, Spencer believes the world champions have added a new dimension to their game.

“He’s got all the skill set. He’s got a great attacking mindset,” Spencer told IOL. “I think he’s shown that within the Boks. He’s shown that within the Highlanders. He’s just one of those intelligent coaches that is innovative. He doesn’t mind bringing something different to the attack.

“It’s good for New Zealand rugby when you see coaches moving on and doing things for other countries. It’s awesome.”

BROWN: I’m not changing Bok philosophy

But while Spencer is pleased to see a Kiwi coach thriving with the Boks, he remains disappointed by South Africa’s absence from Super Rugby since 2021.

“We’re definitely missing them. I think that was always the big question when the South African teams decided to move on. I think New Zealand rugby has shown that we’ve missed them over the last few years.

“I think not only as players, but I just think as a fan base as well. It’s a huge loss for New Zealand rugby. It’s unfortunate for us as New Zealanders because the Bokke are one of our biggest rivals.

“We just love playing against the South Africans. So, without a doubt, it’s a massive loss for New Zealand rugby,” added Spencer, who is currently the Black Ferns attack coach.

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