All Blacks coach Scott Robertson says Ardie Savea’s reputation as a player who “makes the big plays” was enhanced in their 24-17 win over the Springboks on Saturday.
The back-row great was a standout in his 100th Test, capping his performance with a crucial ruck turnover to deny a Bok attack 90 seconds from the end.
It was typical courage from the 31-year-old, who captain Scott Barrett described as New Zealand’s “spiritual leader”.
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Robertson said he and the coaching staff were on their feet in the stands when Savea made his critical late steal.
“I was just so pleased. He’s a person who makes big plays and he sums them up beautifully. It was his moment on the 100th.
“He’s a guy who’s so mentally tough, physically tough and just keeps getting up and he did reflect the Test match for us.”
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Barrett said New Zealand were motivated to win the match for the former World Rugby Player of the Year, who can be rated among the best All Blacks players of the past decade since the retirement of Richie McCaw and Dan Carter.
“I’m personally proud of the way the rest of the 23 guys fronted up for Ardie,” Barrett said. “He’s a spiritual leader within our team. So we wanted to make that special.”
Respect. Thank you @Springboks, what a gesture
pic.twitter.com/H5nNbFgdD9
— All Blacks (@AllBlacks) September 6, 2025
© Agence France-Presse
Photo: Hannah Peters/Getty Images
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