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South Africa vs New Zealand rugby Test
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The gist
South Africa host New Zealand in the first Test of a four-match series at Ellis Park on Saturday. The series marks the first full-size tour between the sides since 1996.
Background
The Springboks and All Blacks, the top two ranked teams in men's rugby, are meeting in the first of four Tests, the first full-size tour between them since 1996. Both teams have 100% records in the Nations Championship, and the series is branded 'Rugby's Greatest Rivalry'.
How it unfolded
- Aug 19, 2026AP previews the series, noting it is the first full-size tour between the sides in 50 years.
- Aug 20, 2026Sky Sports reports Springboks captain Siya Kolisi is omitted from the first Test squad due to a hamstring injury.
- Aug 21, 2026ESPN details the All Blacks' warm-up wins over Stormers, Sharks, and Bulls, and confirms team lineups.
- Aug 22, 2026The first Test kicks off at Ellis Park, Johannesburg, at 5:10 PM local time (3:10 PM GMT).
Who’s saying what
- Official
- Springboks coach Rassie Erasmus says Kolisi is not risked due to injury, with three more Tests to come.
- Analysts
- The Guardian's live blog predicts a close match, with one writer suggesting a Boks win by six points.