From underdogs to overlords: How the Boks flipped the NZ rivalry

THE Springboks’ hold over the All Blacks in the Rassie Erasmus-era is growing stronger with each passing season.

- LEIGHTON KOOPMAN

After Saturday’s runaway victory in Wellington, where the world champions crushed New Zealand 43-10, they completed their seventh win from the last 10 clashes against their fiercest rivals since 2021. This run includes regular Rugby Championship victories as well as crunch clashes such as the 2023 Rugby World Cup final.

For years, it was the Kiwis who dictated the rivalry, with South Africa snatching the odd win here and there. Now, however, the tables have turned in favour of the four-time world champions - and they look intent on extending their dominance.

With three Tests scheduled between the sides next season, anticipation is already building for what has been dubbed “Rugby’s Greatest Rivalry?

The shift began in 2021

The turning point came in Townsville in October 2021. A week after suffering a narrow defeat in their 100th Test against the All Blacks, the Boks clawed their way to a gritty 31-29 victory during a difficult post-Covid-19 period for world rugby.