Springboks Jesse Kriel and Ox Nche say next year’s blockbuster Test series against the All Blacks will push both teams to new heights. MORNÉ ESBEN reports.
The countries’ long, rich history will enter a new chapter next year when the All Blacks embark on the Rugby’s Greatest Rivalry tour, featuring four matches against local franchises, three Tests in South Africa and a fourth at an overseas venue.
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Kriel says the Test series will test both teams in ways a two-Test Freedom Cup series, played as part of the Rugby Championship, can’t.
“Playing them four times in a row is exciting,” said the centre. “With two Tests you can split 1-1 and people still ask who’s the better team. A [proper] series gives you more opportunities to show who you are as a team at the highest level. Because you face the same opponent week after week, it tests more than rugby – coaches’ analysis, player tweaks and tactical innovation have to evolve through the series.”
For Kriel, the rivalry carries deep personal meaning.
“It’s always been special. Growing up I loved watching guys like Christian Cullen, Ma’a Nonu and Conrad Smith – and later I got to play against heroes like Dan Carter. Whenever it’s South Africa versus New Zealand, the energy is different. It’s the fixture you circle in the Test season.”
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Kriel expects the series to be fiercely contested.
“New Zealand are an extremely proud team and every Test is tough. A week is a long time in this game – look at Eden Park: we lost, it felt like a funeral, then the next week [in Wellington] we turned it around and we’ve been on a run since.”
The 31-year-old also dismissed the idea that a four-Test series would limit South Africa’s ability to experiment with selections.
“Our coaches have shown faith in the whole squad regardless of pressure. We’ve changed teams in must-win games and still got results. That gives the group confidence going into big series and the next World Cup cycle.”
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Kriel added that the extended tour format allows players to build relationships across the rivalry.
“Tours also let you connect off the field. When you’re not rushing from airport to hotel to stadium, you can actually have a beer with opponents and get to know them. Playing in Japan I’ve befriended a few All Blacks – it’s cool to learn who they are off the field.”
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Scrum master Ox Nche shared Kriel’s excitement, saying the series will test the mental and emotional resilience of both squads.
“Playing four games back-to-back is a mental and emotional test. You have to get yourself up every single week. You might win one week; the next week the All Blacks will come even harder. It’s good preparation to show you can do it again and again.”
Rugby’s Greatest Rivalry is reignited.
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Nche also hopes the Springboks’ franchise stars could get involved if the schedule allows.
“I’d love to play a franchise game on tour before the Tests,” he said. “With the Sharks, it’s a familiar system and a bit less pressure – you can enjoy it – and it would be a great experience for guys who might not play Test matches. Facing a team like the All Blacks with the players you’re with all year would be special.”
The Bok prop said fans will have a crucial role to play in the historic tour.
“In tight moments, hearing the crowd is like an extra pair of lungs – it gives you a burst of energy. It would be great if lots of New Zealanders travel to South Africa for the tour too.”
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Kriel said the concept of Rugby’s Greatest Rivalry is a refreshing addition to the international calendar.
“The Rugby Championship is a great competition, but this tour is something new and exciting for the sport – it gets fans talking and the players are excited for it.”
Photo: Gordon Arons/Gallo Images
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