The rivalry between Boks and All Blacks is irresistible

Passion burns just as strongly in a clash between players from South Africa and New Zealand, whether in the age group category or in a Test match, he writes MARK KEOHANE.

The Junior Springboks and their Kiwi opponents played out a thrilling 13-13 draw in the opening match of the U20 Rugby Championship in Australia on Thursday.

The match at Sunshine Coast Stadium was played in inclement conditions, with a heavy downpour before kick-off resulting in puddles of water all over the pitch. The strong wind also made handling difficult and the Junior Boks struggled at breaks, but they defended well and carried the ball strongly.

writing for LIVE Schedules, Keohane highlights the long-standing rivalry between the Springboks and the All Blacks, detailing their historic encounters and World Cup clashes. He points to the close competition between the teams, particularly in recent years under the coaching era of Rassie Erasmus and Jacques Nienaber.

Keohane reflects on Thursday’s clash in Australia, arguing that while the quality of play may not have been exceptional, the commitment shown by the youngsters reflects the fervor seen in high-level international fixtures.

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“A new era for southern hemisphere rugby began on Australia’s Sunshine Coast, and the historic tournament opener between New Zealand and South Africa typified everything that has made the Springboks and All Blacks the greatest rivalry in the sport.” , writes Keohane.

“The conditions were more favorable for the Junior Boks, given their authority between the forwards and in collisions. The quality, to a casual observer, would not have been great, but the playing conditions cannot be underestimated when it comes to difficulty.

“Did I see a future Test Springbok and All Blacks at the match? Not at first glance, but what I did see was that the passion burns for both an under-20 showdown and a test clash for players from South Africa and New Zealand, and that is what makes this match so special and the such a special rivalry. Irresistible.”

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