Gio Aplon says the All Blacks are still finding their feet under head coach Scott Robertson, and will be real challengers to the Springboks’ World Cup three-peat in 2027.
Speaking on the Behind The Ruck podcast with fellow former Boks Juan de Jongh and Rudy Paige, Aplon shared his insights on New Zealand’s current form and future prospects.
Despite recent setbacks, including a second-place finish in the 2024 Rugby Championship, the 17-Test Aplon remains on the alert of the All Blacks’ potential. “I’m always wary about the All Blacks. I’m always wary about what is next, what are they going to do?”
Aplon highlighted the Kiwis’ transition under Robertson, noting, “For five cycles, they had the same kind of voice, or a voice stayed. It’s the first time also they have a new coaching staff, the chosen one, who’s Razor, who comes from Super Rugby.”
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The ex-Bok flyer acknowledged New Zealand’s rebuilding phase but emphasised their competitiveness. “Yes, they lost to Argentina in New Zealand, but to lose to the No 1 team in the world, the trendsetters, by opportunities, they’re going somewhere,” he remarked.
Looking ahead to 2027, Aplon sees several factors working in the All Blacks’ favour, particularly the 2026 tour to South Africa and their continued participation in Super Rugby as key preparation elements.
“They’re playing Super Rugby. So the World Cup is in Australia,” he explained. “They’re going to play [that] for the next three seasons. They’re going to play in those conditions. They’re going to play in Brisbane. They’re going to play in Perth [or] wherever. So they’re going to get used to their conditions.”
Addressing concerns about the physicality of Super Rugby without South African teams, Aplon added, “Come 2026, they’re coming to South Africa. So we always say Super Rugby lacks the physicality [without the South Africans]. They’re going to come and play eight games in South Africa to make up for that physicality.”
The DHL Stormers legend concluded with a bold prediction: “I believe they’re going to be the best prepared side going to the World Cup.”
Photo: @AllBlacks/Twitter
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Src: sarugbymag.co.za
