Rassie ErasmusIn the news
Springbok lock Lood de Jager has detailed the fine technical nuances of set-piece play and his road back to health as he targets the 2027 World Cup in Australia.  |  Backpagepix
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Lood de Jager reflects on injury nightmare, set-piece detail and 2027 World Cup ambition

Springbok lock Lood de Jager discusses set-piece demands, overcoming serious health scares, and his determination to push for the 2027 Rugby World Cup.

Captains Ardie Savea of the All Blacks, left, and Siya Kolisi of the Springboks will play a massive part in rallying their troops at FNB Stadium this weekend.  |  Backpagepix
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The Greatest Rivalry in overdrive: Five key match-ups that will decide Springboks v All Blacks in Soweto

Ahead of the crucial third Test at FNB Stadium, we break down the individual duels that will define the clash between the Springboks and All Blacks.

Mind games or valid concerns? All Blacks coach Dave Rennie has ramped up the heat on match officials ahead of the third Test against the Springboks in Soweto.  |  Backpagepix
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Whining All Blacks trade traditional class for cynicism in Rugby's Greatest Rivalry

The All Blacks' persistent complaints over Springbok scrum tactics and off-the-ball antics signal a decline from their former status as rugby's gold standard.

Cape Town’s All Blacks supporters carry a tradition rooted in apartheid-era resistance, family memory and a lasting love for New Zealand rugby.
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More than a game: Why many South Africans still cheer for the All Blacks

Divided loyalties at the stadium reflect deep history. Choosing the All Blacks connects generations of fans to their roots, their past, and world-class rugby.

Cheslin Kolbe shifts to full-back as Springbok coach Rassie Erasmus names his team for the third Test against the All Blacks in Johannesburg.  |  Backpagepix

Rassie Erasmus opts for continuity in Springboks line-up for All Blacks Test at FNB Stadium

Springbok head coach Rassie Erasmus has named his team to face the All Blacks at FNB Stadium, making front-row rotations and shifting Cheslin Kolbe to full-back following Damian…

Ethan Hooker opened up on his resilience through tragedy, his swift injury return, and his willingness to fit into Rassie Erasmus' Springbok plans last week.  |  Backpagepix
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Through tragedy and injury, Ethan Hooker proves he has the heart for Test rugby

Rising Springbok and Sharks star Ethan Hooker opens up about his secret stint at eighthman, honoring his late father, and recovering from a severe shoulder injury.

Springbok hooker Malcolm Marx is gang-tackled by the All Blacks' defence during the first test of Rugby's Greatest Rivalry at Ellis Park on Saturday.  |  Backpagepix
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Chewed hearts and silverware: A soap opera lesson for the Springboks and All Blacks

From a viral One Tree Hill blunder to the Springboks vs All Blacks rivalry, learn why handling a trophy requires utmost care.

Grant Williams, pictured, will pair up with Sacha Feinberg-Mngomezulu at half-back as the Springboks prepare to unleash their attack against the All Blacks.  |  Backpagepix
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EXCLUSIVE | Victor Matfield dismisses pre-Test 'white noise' ahead of Springboks' Ellis Park clash

Springbok legend Victor Matfield says the team will ignore external media noise and focus on set-piece dominance when they take on the All Blacks at Ellis Park.

Steven Kitshoff expects Malcolm Marx to deliver a monster performance at hooker when the Boks collide with New Zealand at Ellis Park.  |  Backpagepix
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EXCLUSIVE | Kitshoff: Boks will win battle up front against All Blacks

Former Springbok tells The National why he backs South Africa in the Ellis Park Test today.

The Springboks and All Blacks are set for a tactical showdown as their historic rivalry resumes at Ellis Park on Saturday.  |  Backpagepix

Tactics and breakdown battles key as Springboks prepare for All Blacks clash

A closer look at the key tactical battles, kicking strategies, and breakdown dynamics as the Springboks prepare to face the All Blacks at Ellis Park.

SPRINGBOK coach Rassie Erasmus is expecting a massive battle against the All Blacks.

Boks in knockout mode ahead of first Test

SPRINGBOK coach Rassie Erasmus has shifted his team into World Cup-style knockout mode as they prepare for a blockbuster clash against the All Blacks in the first Rugby’s…