South Africa delivered a performance for the ages on Saturday, dismantling New Zealand 43-10 in the Rugby Championship to reclaim the world’s number one ranking. In doing so, the Springboks inflicted the All Blacks’ heaviest-ever defeat on home soil and avenged last week’s 24-17 loss in Auckland.
The Boks crossed for six tries to one, with Cheslin Kolbe grabbing a double, as they silenced critics who questioned whether the reigning world champions were still at their peak. The result eclipsed New Zealand’s previous worst defeat — also against South Africa, a 35-7 loss at Twickenham in 2023.
From the outset, the Springboks imposed themselves physically, shutting down the All Blacks with ferocious defence and bossing the set pieces. Despite dominating territory and possession, they went into halftime trailing 10-7 after debutant Leroy Carter’s try and a Damian McKenzie penalty. Kolbe had earlier struck back with a 70-metre intercept effort, but it was only a glimpse of what was to come.
The second half was one-way traffic. Kolbe struck again just minutes after the restart, finishing off a sweeping move sparked by Siya Kolisi’s powerful break. Damian Willemse capitalised on a stolen lineout to extend the lead, before Kwagga Smith, RG Snyman and Andre Esterhuizen all piled on late tries as the All Blacks’ defence collapsed under relentless pressure.
The 36-0 second-half blitz highlighted South Africa’s depth and dominance, while leaving New Zealand coach Scott Robertson facing tough questions about his team’s progress.
The result leaves all four Rugby Championship teams level on two wins and two losses, with Australia holding a narrow lead on bonus points after their 28-26 defeat to Argentina earlier in the day.
South Africa will host Argentina in Durban in two weeks, while New Zealand face a must-win clash against Australia in Auckland. For now, though, the Springboks’ emphatic win sends a powerful message: the world champions remain the team to beat.
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