The Springboks have added another major achievement to their remarkable recent run after defeating New Zealand 43-28 in Baltimore to claim a 3-1 series victory over the All Blacks.
The result further strengthens South Africa’s position as one of the dominant forces in world rugby, with the current squad continuing to collect major honours on the international stage.
The Springboks are already two-time reigning Rugby World Cup champions. In the space of seven years, they have also secured series victories against the British and Irish Lions and now the All Blacks.
For captain Siya Kolisi, the latest triumph is another important chapter in a rivalry that continues to define international rugby.
Despite the intensity of the contest, Kolisi said the respect between the two teams remains strong. The players demonstrated that mutual respect after the final whistle when members of both sides came together for a prayer.
“We go against each other all the time, but we get along off the field, and there is no hiding that we are good friends,” Kolisi said.
The Springboks captain praised the All Blacks for the way they embraced South Africa and its people during their recent visit, saying the relationship between the two teams extends beyond what happens on the rugby field.
Kolisi also acknowledged that the rivalry is far from over.
“We know we are going to see each other again, so it was really a special moment,” he said.
For coach Rassie Erasmus, however, the biggest motivation remains the people back home.
Erasmus said the team appreciates the global attention, rivalry and banter surrounding their matches, but ultimately their performances are about representing South Africa.
“We really care the most about South African people,” Erasmus said.
He added that, despite all the noise surrounding Rugby’s Greatest Rivalry, the team’s priority was to make South Africans proud.
The 3-1 series victory over New Zealand now adds another significant achievement to a Springbok era that continues to rewrite the record books.