Four Wins in 30 Years: Can the Springboks Finally Beat the All Blacks in New Zealand?
The Springboks face a daunting task as they head to New Zealand, with the goal of securing a rare victory on enemy soil to keep their Rugby Championship ambitions alive. A two-game tour against their fiercest rivals is looming, and at least one win is essential to stay competitive and set up a strong finish in their remaining fixtures against Argentina.
After a surprising defeat to the Wallabies at Ellis Park, the Boks bounced back with a win in Cape Town. Combined with Argentina’s historic first win against the All Blacks at home, this has essentially leveled the playing field heading into the next round of matches. However, suffering two losses in New Zealand could seriously derail their title hopes, making a win there critical.
Historical Struggles in New Zealand
Historically, the Springboks have struggled on New Zealand soil. In over a century of clashes, they have only won ten times, lost 32, and drawn three. Since rugby went professional in 1995, the Boks have managed just four victories in New Zealand: 13-3 in Wellington (1998), 30-28 in Dunedin (2008), 32-29 in Hamilton (2009), and 36-34 in Wellington (2018). More recently, they drew 16-all in Wellington in 2019 and lost 35-20 in Auckland in 2023.
This tour presents a golden opportunity for South Africa to notch another win and potentially even two matching their best-ever run of six consecutive wins against New Zealand, achieved between 1937 and 1949.
Also read: Rugby Championship 2025 Guide: Springbok Selections and Key Fixtures
Key Areas for Improvement
To succeed, the Boks will need to improve on their performances against the Wallabies. The breakdown remains a concern, as they were largely outplayed in this phase of the game by Australia and earlier by Italy. Strengthening their set-piece will also be vital; while the scrum has been solid, it has lacked its usual dominance, and the lineouts have fluctuated in quality. Stability here will be key.
Additionally, the Springboks must stick to a coherent game plan. Their experimental approach against Australia backfired, emphasizing the need for clear strategy and teamwork against the All Blacks
While South Africa has enjoyed a four-game winning streak over New Zealand in recent encounters, none of these victories came on Kiwi soil. Overcoming this final hurdle will be the true test for the Springboks as they aim to turn history in their favor.
Related article: Springboks Set Sights on Ending All Blacks’ Eden Park Dominance
