The Springboks could be heading for another demanding battle with the All Blacks next year, with New Zealand coach Dave Rennie revealing details of a potential two-Test series between the traditional rivals.
The fixtures are yet to be officially announced, but Rennie indicated that South Africa is expected to travel to New Zealand for matches in Auckland and Christchurch in July.
The proposed series would come shortly after the Super Rugby final and form part of the Springboks’ preparations for the 2027 Rugby World Cup.
Rennie Reveals July Plans
Speaking to Newstalk, Rennie said the All Blacks are scheduled to face the Springboks twice in July, with the matches expected to take place approximately two weeks after the Super Rugby final.
“We play each other twice in July, straight after the Super Rugby final, like two weeks after that final,” Rennie said.
“We play them in Auckland and Christchurch.”
The comments effectively provide an early glimpse into a schedule that has not yet been formally released, putting two of rugby’s biggest rivals on course for another series of high-profile encounters.
World Cup Preparation Begins Early
The matches would give both teams valuable preparation ahead of the 2027 World Cup, which will be hosted in Australia.
Rennie expects the Springboks to make some changes to their squad by then, but believes the core of the team and its playing approach will remain familiar.
“We’re going to play them a lot leading into the World Cup and I think their side may look a tad different, but I think the nucleus will be the same,” he said.
Rennie also suggested that the two nations could meet again at the World Cup itself, adding another layer of intrigue to their already intense rivalry.
Possible Quarter-Final Rematch
The tournament draw could result in South Africa and New Zealand meeting in the quarter-finals if both sides finish top of their respective pools.
Rennie acknowledged how unusual such a possibility would be given the stature of the rivalry and the potential frequency of their meetings before the tournament.
“And likely to meet in a quarter-final if both teams win their pool, which is odd, but the way it is,” he said.
That scenario could mean the Springboks and All Blacks face each other multiple times within a relatively short period as they build towards the defence of South Africa’s World Cup crown.
Springboks Still Lead World Rankings
South Africa currently occupies the summit of the World Rugby rankings, with New Zealand sitting directly behind them.
The Springboks strengthened their position after their recent series success against the All Blacks, although their subsequent defeat to Australia in Perth resulted in a points drop.
South Africa remains first on 93.09 points, while New Zealand is second on 91.15.
Ireland occupies third place on 88.08, followed by France on 87.43 and England on 85.68.
Australia Climbs Into Seventh
Australia’s victory over South Africa has also helped the Wallabies move into seventh position with 83.55 points.
Scotland is sixth on 84.78, while Argentina is eighth on 82.24.
Fiji completes the top 10 alongside Wales, with the Pacific Island nation on 78.00 points and Wales on 76.38.
Italy, Japan, Georgia, the United States and Portugal make up positions 11 through 15 respectively.
A Rivalry Set for Another Chapter
With the Springboks preparing to defend their world title and the All Blacks seeking to challenge for global honours, the proposed July fixtures could become an important part of both teams’ preparations.
The Auckland and Christchurch Tests have yet to be formally confirmed, but Rennie’s comments have already offered supporters an early indication of what could be another busy year in one of international rugby’s most enduring rivalries.
