New All Blacks coach Dave Rennie has given his first thoughts on the blockbuster four-Test showdown with the Springboks later this year.
The Greatest Rivalry tour is the highlight of the 2026 international season and Rennie says he’s relishing the prospect of six bruising weeks on South African soil.
Three Tests are scheduled across Johannesburg and Cape Town, and a fourth in the USA. The All Blacks will also face the Stormers, Sharks, Vodacom Bulls and Lions.
ALSO: ‘Touring SA bigger challenge than Lions series’
“I’m not sure about my percentages against [South African] teams,” Rennie joked.
“Obviously the rivalry is massive. I’m really excited about that tour. Some people might think it’s daunting but we’re going to get six weeks in Africa with 40-odd players.”
RENNIE: All Blacks will be picked on form
For Rennie, it’s more than just a series – it’s a World Cup launchpad.
“It’s a massive opportunity for us just to drive culture, really get a lot of detail around our game model and come out of there 12 months away from the World Cup with a genuine clarity and excitement, so yeah, really looking forward to that.”
Rugby’s Greatest Rivalry tour fixtures
Friday, 7 August: vs Stormers, Cape Town Stadium, Cape Town
Tuesday, 11 August: vs Sharks, Kings Park, Durban
Saturday, 15 August: vs Vodacom Bulls, Loftus Versfeld, Pretoria
Saturday, 22 August: vs Springboks, Ellis Park, Johannesburg
Tuesday, 25 August: vs Lions, Ellis Park, Johannesburg
Saturday, 29 August: vs Springboks, Cape Town Stadium, Cape Town
Saturday, 5 September: vs Springboks, FNB Stadium, Johannesburg
Saturday 12 September: vs Springboks, M&T Bank Stadium, Baltimore
Photo: Gordon Arons/Gallo Images
The post Rennie relishes Greatest Rivalry showdown appeared first on SA Rugby magazine.