Scott Barrett says the All Blacks aren’t losing sleep over the prospect of a massive 2027 World Cup quarter-final against the Springboks.
But he admits New Zealand will need to peak perfectly to survive the tournament’s brutal draw.
The two top-ranked sides are on track for a last-eight collision in Australia, provided they top their pools and clear the round of 16.
The Boks landed Italy, Georgia and Romania, while the All Blacks were grouped with Australia, Chile and debutants Hong Kong.
MORE: Boks early RWC favourites with bookies
“Along the way you’re going to play potentially No 1, 2 and 3 in the world and it might not be in the final,” Barrett said. “So that’s the beauty of the World Cup. You’re going to have to peak at the right time.”
Rassie Erasmus’ Springboks, who’re chasing an unprecedented third consecutive title, carry the psychological advantage after edging New Zealand 12–11 in the 2023 final. But Erasmus warned his squad won’t be lulled into complacency.
“We are pleased with the pool we have been drawn in, but this is a World Cup and every team will go out there with great passion and do their utmost to represent their nations with pride,” he said.
“There have been surprises in the tournament before, so we’ll need to be up mentally and physically for every match.”
ALSO: Boks, All Blacks set to collide in RWC quarter-final
The rivalry only intensifies before 2027. The All Blacks travel to South Africa in 2026 for the first traditional tour between the nations in 30 years – three Tests in Johannesburg and Cape Town, plus a fourth at a neutral venue.
All Blacks coach Scott Robertson insists that if the quarter-final brings them face-to-face with the Boks again, they’ll embrace it.
“You’re coming into a World Cup, you’re going to have to face someone in form to win it,” he said. “So if the quarter-final fits the way it works out, that’s the best part of the draw. You embrace it.”
MORE: ‘Dream’ RWC draw for debutants Hong Kong
First, New Zealand must deal with hosts Australia in Pool A, with the trans-Tasman matchup a potential tournament opener in Perth. The full schedule drops on 3 February.
“Obviously there’s no guarantee to it, but if it is at Optus [Stadium] and you’re playing in a full house, pretty special,” Robertson said. “So close to home, there will be a lot of Kiwis there.”
GALTHIE: Boks a formidable, colossal challenge
– AFP
Photo: Hannah Peters/Getty Images
The post All Blacks relish potential Bok World Cup showdown appeared first on SA Rugby magazine.