“Springboks vs All Blacks: High-Stakes Rugby Rematch of the Year”
The Springboks and All Blacks are set for another clash following their memorable Rugby World Cup final last year.
In that final, the Springboks narrowly defeated New Zealand 12-11 at the Stade de France. This will be their first meeting since that match, with the All Blacks eager to avenge their defeat. The All Blacks come into the game after a dominant 42-10 victory over Argentina last weekend.
When do the Springboks play the All Blacks?
The Springboks will face New Zealand in their third Rugby Championship match at Ellis Park Stadium on Saturday, August 24. They will meet again the following weekend at Cape Town Stadium. Currently, South Africa leads the championship with 10 points, having won their first two matches against Australia.
Despite the Springboks being slight favorites, coach Rassie Erasmus anticipates a tough challenge from the All Blacks.
“New Zealand are ranked third in the world, and they always push us to the limit,” Erasmus said. “We saw last week how dangerous they are under pressure when they defeated Argentina 42-10 after losing their first Test against the Pumas.”
Back-to-back tests for the Boks
“We understand these two tests Will present a completely different challenge compared to facing an Australian team that is still finding its footing with a new coach and a number of young players coming through,” Erasmus added, as quoted by SA Rugby.
The Springboks are facing perhaps their toughest challenge since winning the Rugby World Cup last year. While they’ve played Ireland twice, a match against the All Blacks always feels like the pinnacle of rugby competition.