The Springboks and All Blacks have never failed to deliver when rugby’s two giants and arch-rivals clash at Ellis Park this week, writes MARK KEOHANE.
In a rematch of the 2023 Rugby World Cup final, the Boks face New Zealand in the Rugby Championship on Saturday in Johannesburg, before the rivalry makes its debut at Cape Town Stadium on 7 September.
Following their win when the two teams met in Paris less than a year ago, the Boks are looking to claim three wins in a row over the All Blacks for just the second time in the professional era, matching the record set in 2009.
Writing for TimesLIVE, Keohane reflects on the intense history of Springboks versus All Blacks clashes at Ellis Park, describing it as a legendary venue for rugby’s greatest rivalry.
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He highlights the unforgettable 2013 Test, which the highly respected Nigel Owens called the best match he ever refereed. The All Blacks won 38-27 in a game of relentless pace, physicality and nine tries.
Keohane also recalls other epic Ellis Park encounters, including Pat Lambie’s last-minute penalty in 2014 for a 27-25 Bok win, Richie McCaw’s 2015 late heroics, and the All Blacks’ stunning late comeback in 2022.
Ellis Park has hosted several historic matches, both in the amateur and professional eras, with both teams securing memorable victories. Keohane notes the remarkable numbers between the sides at this ground, and a nearly even point tally of 248 to 247 in favour of the All Blacks.
“There were seven lead changes before Beauden Barrett’s bonus-point try in what Welsh referee Nigel Owens described as the greatest Test match he had ever refereed at the greatest rugby ground,” he writes.
“Ellis Park, host to the Springboks 100-minute extra time 15-12 World Cup final win against the All Blacks, has never failed to deliver when the sport’s two giants clash.
“There are some fascinating numbers from the match-ups at Ellis Park. In the professional era the two teams have played eight times, with each winning four. The All Blacks have won three of the last four.
“What are the odds of Saturday finishing 31-all?”
Photo: Steve Haag/Gallo Images
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