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New Zealand prepares to face South Africa in rugby union Test series

2 sources • 1 min read • Latest: Aug 17, 2026, 1:39 PM

Last updated Aug 17, 2026

New Zealand prepares to face South Africa in rugby union Test series

Summary

New Zealand's rugby team is set to tour South Africa for a three-Test series, starting Saturday. The All Blacks aim to establish dominance after a successful summer, despite having only secured four victories in South Africa since 2016. This tour, branded the 'Greatest Rivalry', is set against the backdrop of economic changes in rugby, with New Zealand and South Africa seeking to create profitable international fixtures. A fourth match will be held in Baltimore, marking their first Test on American soil.

Source Links

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By the Numbers

•First Test starts Saturday in Johannesburg.
•New Zealand won all warm-up matches against South African franchises.
•South Africa won the last Rugby World Cup and remains ranked first.
•New Zealand aims to overcome a lengthy win drought in South Africa.
•A fourth match is planned in Baltimore, expanding their rivalry.

Latest Updates

1:39 PMYahoo Sports — Is All Blacks' tour of South Africa a new chapter for rugby union?
1:18 PMBBC Sport — Is NZ tour of South Africa a new chapter for rugby union?

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