Greatest rivalry: Never write off All Blacks says World Cup hero

Having been part of the 1995 World Cup-winning squad, few understand the depth of the rivalry between South Africa and New Zealand quite like Japie Mulder.

The former Springbok centre etched his name into folklore with a try-saving tackle on All Blacks phenomenon Jonah Lomu in the final at Ellis Park – a defining moment in one of rugby’s greatest ever matches.

On that historic day, South Africa edged New Zealand 15-12 to claim their first World Cup title.

Since then, the Springboks have claimed three additional titles (2007, 2019 and 2023), taking their tally to four and surpassing the All Blacks, who have three (1987, 2011, 2015).

Now, in 2026, another chapter awaits. The two giants of world rugby will collide once more as New Zealand tour South Africa in what has been dubbed the Greatest Rivalry Series.

It marks a significant return. The All Blacks have not toured South Africa in a full Test series since 1996, when they claimed a 2-1 victory – a result still remembered as one of their finest overseas triumphs.

The teams will go head-to-head on August 22 at Ellis Park, followed by Tests at Cape Town Stadium, FNB Stadium and a rare match at M&T Bank Stadium in Baltimore.

The teams arrive at this series from very different positions.

Led by Rassie Erasmus, the Springboks are in much better stride and have been dominating world rugby. They secured back-to-back Rugby Championships for the first time (2024 and 2025) and are currently No.1 in the world.

Erasmus has built more than just a winning team – he has constructed a system. A formidable forward pack lays the foundation, while a clinical, dynamic backline ensures the Boks remain as dangerous as ever.

New Zealand, by contrast, find themselves in a period of transition. Recent seasons have brought unfamiliar challenges, including a historic first defeat to Ireland. There is also a shift in leaders with a new coach in Dave Rennie, replacing Scott Robertson.

Mulder points out that writing off the All Blacks would be a mistake.

“You’re the number one now, but rugby is a funny thing,” 

“In 1995, we weren’t even rated. Everyone said we did well by getting to the quarterfinals, and no one gave us a chance.

“But we went on to win.

“So, beware the underdog.”

Despite their struggles, New Zealand remain second in the world rankings  – a reminder of their enduring class.

“Everyone says we [South Africa] are the favourites to win the series against the All Blacks, but I will never underrate the All Blacks side. Anything can happen on the day,” Mulder stated.

“South Africa against the All Blacks – one can’t really say. They [All Blacks] can come in and lose 4-0. We can lose 4-0, especially with the quality of players that they also have.”

While cautious of the All Blacks’ threat, Mulder did not hold back in his praise of Erasmus’ impact on South African rugby.

“South Africa are on a high at the moment. Rassie is doing an extremely good job. He’s changed the way that South African rugby is played and supported.

“A great support system around him – he appointed the right people. All these people are working together with him. They’ve created something unique.”

However. Mulder acknowledged that dominance in rugby is never permanent.

“How long it’s going to last, I don’t know. There’s always a place for new people and new players coming in, so the dynamics might change.

“But at the moment, they are seriously number one. It’s actually a pleasure to watch the Springboks playing at the moment.”

For Mulder, the essence of the Springboks-All Blacks rivalry goes far beyond rankings or results – it is something deeply ingrained.

“It’s history,” he said

“I remember when I grew up, my dad used to wake me up at 04.00 am in 1981 when South Africa played in New Zealand, and that becomes part of your culture.

“My dad told me that was the biggest rivalry, and I believed it – and it was. And when I played, it was the biggest rivalry. So, I think it’s just generation after generation that realise what it means to play against the All Blacks.

“I think every Springbok rugby player wants to play against New Zealand – and not just play against them but try and beat them.”