South Africa and New Zealand head into the third Test of their historic “Rugby’s Greatest Rivalry” series locked at 1-1, after the Springboks fought back from a first-Test defeat to beat the All Blacks 33-26 in Cape Town. The four-match series — the first full touring format between the two nations in South Africa in the professional era — continues at FNB Stadium in Johannesburg, before a landmark fourth Test becomes the first-ever meeting between the sides to be staged in the United States.
For fans following the latest Springboks vs All Blacks news, here’s a full recap of the series so far and a look ahead to what comes next.
What Happened So Far?
New Zealand struck first, dominating for long periods at Ellis Park to win the series opener 33-16 on August 22, a result that saw them climb to the top of the World Rugby rankings above South Africa. Wing Will Jordan was among the standout performers, crossing twice to take his Test try tally to 53 as the All Blacks ran in five tries in Johannesburg.
South Africa responded with a much-improved performance in Cape Town on August 29, scoring from their very first attack through centre Jesse Kriel inside the opening two minutes. The Springboks built a commanding 30-14 lead before having to survive a fierce late fightback, with the All Blacks scoring twice in the final 14 minutes to close the gap. South Africa held on to win 33-26, levelling the series at 1-1.
Key Moments and Player Performance
Cheslin Kolbe, a late addition to the Springbok squad after recovering from a knock sustained in the first Test, was named Man of the Match in Cape Town after a flawless 18-point kicking display. Captain Siya Kolisi also returned from a hamstring injury to lead the side in the second Test, having been forced to sit out the series opener.
New Zealand’s fightback in the closing quarter, in which they outscored the Springboks four tries to three across the match, showed the visitors remain a significant threat even when trailing heavily — a factor that will concern South Africa heading into the decisive rounds.
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Statistics and Records
The series has already produced contrasting styles of rugby: a high-scoring, try-laden opener in Johannesburg followed by a more even, momentum-swinging contest in Cape Town. With both sides having now won once, the world rankings remain finely poised between the two nations heading into the third Test, with barely a point separating them at the top of the table.
Rankings Impact and What This Means Going Forward
A win for either side in Johannesburg on September 5 would hand them a 2-1 series lead heading into the historic fourth Test. For South Africa, victory on home soil in Johannesburg would also put them in position to reclaim the world number one ranking they lost after the opening defeat. For New Zealand, a win would all but secure the series with one match to play, while a loss would set up a winner-takes-all finale in an unprecedented setting.
Upcoming Fixtures
The third Test kicks off at FNB Stadium in Johannesburg on Saturday, September 5, before the tour concludes in truly historic fashion on September 12, when the Springboks and All Blacks meet at the M&T Bank Stadium in Baltimore — the first time these two rugby giants have ever played each other on American soil. The series forms part of “Rugby’s Greatest Rivalry,” a touring format that alternates between South Africa and New Zealand every four years, with New Zealand also having faced several South African URC franchises during their extended tour.
FAQ
What is the current score in the Springboks vs All Blacks series?
The four-Test series is level at 1-1 after New Zealand won the first Test 33-16 and South Africa won the second 33-26.
Where is the third Test being played?
The third Test is being played at FNB Stadium in Johannesburg on Saturday, September 5, 2026.
Why is the fourth Test significant?
The fourth Test, scheduled for September 12 in Baltimore, will be the first-ever meeting between the Springboks and All Blacks played in the United States.
Who was named Man of the Match in the second Test?
Springboks wing Cheslin Kolbe was named Man of the Match after an 18-point kicking display in Cape Town.
