South Africa and New Zealand clash in the first of four back-to-back Tests as the .
The southern hemisphere heavyweights are colliding in a landmark tour of this type for the first time in 30 years, with the All Blacks unbeaten . Three warm-up wins have served as useful preparation for Dave Rennie’s side, but the intensity, animosity and physicality will ratchet up significant as the Springboks bid to prove themselves again as the best in the world.
The two head coaches have traded barbs about rugby’s lawbook in their press engagements this week, When last these two met, the world champions meted out a record thrashing of New Zealand in Wellington – can the All Blacks hit back to launch the series in style?
Follow all of the latest from the first Test in Johannesburg with our live blog below:
South Africa v New Zealand LIVE
- South Africa host New Zealand in first of four Tests | Live on Sky Sports with kick off at 4.10pm BST
- Springboks and All Blacks are colliding in landmark Rugby’s Greatest Rivalry series
- TEAM NEWS: Siya Kolisi left out by world champions; Ruben Love trusted at No 10 for tourists
- PREVIEW: The deeper significance behind Rugby’s Greatest Rivalry
The deeper significance behind South Africa and New Zealand’s Rugby’s Greatest Rivalry series
14:35 , Harry Latham-Coyle
This is the start of the Rugby’s Greatest Rivalry series proper, with the landmark new reciprocal touring agreement between these two nations coming at an intriguing time for South Africa, New Zealand and rugby generally:
Springboks v All Blacks: The players that could define first Test
14:25 , Harry Latham-Coyle
Plenty to go at in the two sides, with each selection instructive over how each team may wish to play. Here are five figures who could define this first Test:
Ardie Savea returns to lead New Zealand as All Blacks make fly half decision for first Test against South Africa
14:15 , Harry Latham-Coyle
New Zealand, meanwhile, are bolstered by their captain as Ardie Savea returns from a rest to lead the All Blacks.
Siya Kolisi left out as South Africa reveal team for first New Zealand Test
14:05 , Harry Latham-Coyle
Rassie Erasmus delayed the naming of his Springboks team until Thursday, atypically late for the South Africa head coach – but there was still some major news:
South Africa vs New Zealand LIVE
08:13 , Harry Latham-Coyle
A mighty meeting of southern hemisphere heavyweights launches properly this afternoon as South Africa and New Zealand embark on the Rugby’s Greatest Rivalry series. The storied Ellis Park is our venue for the first of four Tests between the pair as the Springboks and All Blacks collide – this should be very, very tasty indeed.
Kick off is at 4.10pm BST.
