New Zealand produced a defensive masterclass to beat South Africa 24-17 and defend their Eden Park stronghold.
The All Blacks extended their unbeaten run at the Auckland fortress to 51 matches as the Springboks failed to conquer the hallowed ground after producing an uncharacteristically sloppy performance. Rassie Erasmus’ world champions had travelled to New Zealand with hope that they could seize control of the Rugby Championship with a first victory at Eden Park since 1937, but despite a late fightback that saw them threaten to snatch a draw, the home side held firm – with Ardie Savea fittingly securing a crucial turnover on the occasion of his 100th cap.
After a shock defeat to Argentina last time out, this was a vastly improved showing from Scott Robertson’s hosts as they showcased their defensive strength with a number of outstanding defensive stands. With Beauden Barrett controlling affairs well, tries from Emoni Narawa, Will Jordan and Quinn Tupaea pushed the All Blacks out of reach despite that late rally from the Springboks – who will hope to get revenge in Wellington in the second of back-to-back meetings next week.
Follow all of the latest from the Rugby Championship with our live blog below:
All Blacks vs Springboks live
- New Zealand hold on for dramatic 24-17 South Africa in compelling Rugby Championship clash
- All Blacks bounce back from defeat to Argentina to retain their unbeaten Eden Park record, that stretches back to 1994
- 75' - TRY! Reinach snipes over to set up grandstand finish (NZ 24-17 SA)
- 68' - TRY! Tupea crashes over to restore NZ's two-score lead (NZ 24-10 SA)
- 63' - TRY! Marx powers across the line to bring Springboks back into it (NZ 17-10)
- 14' - TRY! Jordan dances through for a lovely try (NZ 14-0 SA)
- 2' - TRY! Narawa gives All Blacks the perfect start with a clever try after Barrett cross-kick (NZ 7-0 SA)
Ardie Savea reflects on a special day
12:02 , Luke BakerWhat a day for Ardie Savea. He won his 100th All Blacks cap, beat bitter rivals South Africa and got a crucial turnover that stopped the Boks metres from the line with a couple of minutes left.
Here’s his thoughts on everything.
"Every time we play in New Zealand, we play for our people" 🇳🇿
— TheRugbyChampionship (@SanzarTRC) September 6, 2025
Hear from the man of the moment, Ardie Savea after an incredible 100th test for the @AllBlacks #NZLvRSA #TheRugbyChampionship pic.twitter.com/KOYS2HGgKA
All Blacks survive brutal Springboks battle to seize control of Rugby Championship
11:40 , Luke BakerNew Zealand held firm at their Eden Park fortress to claim an attritional 24-17 win over South Africa in a heavyweight clash between the world's top two rugby sides.
Under pressure after conceding a first-ever defeat on Argentine soil against the Pumas two weeks ago, the All Blacks responded with a performance of grit and discipline to stretch their unbeaten run at their Auckland stronghold to 51 matches.
Two well-taken tries by Emoni Narawa and Will Jordan set up a 14-3 lead at halftime before Quinn Tupaea grabbed a third five-pointer for the hosts 13 minutes from time.
Here’s the full report from today’s clash:
All Blacks survive brutal Springboks battle to seize control of Rugby Championship
Rugby Championship 2025 Schedule
11:23 , Luke BakerHere’s the full schedule for this year’s Championship
16 August
South Africa 22-38 Australia
Argentina 24-41 New Zealand
23 August
South Africa 30-22 Australia
Argentina 29-23 New Zealand
6 September
Australia 28-24 Argentina
New Zealand 24-17 South Africa
13 September
Australia vs Argentina - Sydney, 5am BST
New Zealand vs South Africa - Wellington, 8.05am BST
27 September
New Zealand vs Australia - Auckland, 6.05am BST
South Africa vs Argentina - Durban, 4.10pm BST
4 October
Australia vs New Zealand - Perth, 10.45am BST
Argentina vs South Africa - Twickenham, 2pm BST
New Zealand v South Africa stats
11:06 , Luke BakerHere are some key stats from today’s clash - ultimately not much in it
Territory: New Zealand 40%-60% South Africa
Possession: NZ 48%-52% SA
Tackles: NZ 145-110 SA
Tackles missed: NZ 24-25 SA
Carries: NZ 95-95 SA
Penalties conceded: NZ 10-10 SA
Line breaks: NZ 3-1 SA
Turnovers conceded: NZ 13-12 SA
Australia snatch dramatic victory at death in Rugby Championship thriller
10:53 , Luke BakerHere’s how things went down in the match between Australia and Argentina earlier today.
Angus Bell scored the winning try six minutes after the final hooter as the Wallabies overturned a 14-point half-time deficit to beat Argentina 28-24 in a Rugby Championship thriller in Townsville.
The Pumas led 21-7 at the break before the Wallabies levelled the score with a brace of tries from centre Joseph-Aukuso Suaalii, but Pumas full-back Juan Cruz Mallia edged the visitors ahead with a penalty a minute from time. However, that wasn’t enough...
Australia snatch dramatic victory at death in Rugby Championship thriller
All Blacks survive brutal Springboks battle to seize control of Rugby Championship
10:40 , Harry Latham-CoyleNew Zealand held firm at their Eden Park fortress to claim an attritional 24-17 win over South Africa in a heavyweight clash between the world's top two rugby sides.
Under pressure after conceding a first-ever defeat on Argentine soil against the Pumas two weeks ago, the All Blacks responded with a performance of grit and discipline to stretch their unbeaten run at their Auckland stronghold to 51 matches.
Two well-taken tries by Emoni Narawa and Will Jordan set up a 14-3 lead at halftime before Quinn Tupaea grabbed a third five-pointer for the hosts 13 minutes from time.
All Blacks survive brutal Springboks battle to seize control of Rugby Championship
Rugby Championship upcoming fixtures
10:38 , Luke BakerSo what’s next in the Rugby Championship?
Round four kicks off in Sydney next weekend where Australia will be gunning for back-to-back victories over Argentina from 5am BST.
And then we’ll have a rematch of this All Blacks-Springboks cracker in Wellington from 8.05am.
More of the same in terms of drama would be ideal.
Rugby Championship table
10:25 , Luke BakerThat victory sends New Zealand back to the top of the Rugby Championship, leapfrogging Australia, who beat Argentina earlier.
The losing bonus point for the Springboks at least sees them climb off the bottom, as they move above Argentina by the narrowest of margins.
Springboks captain Jesse Kriel reacts to defeat
10:15 , Harry Latham-CoyleSpringboks captain Jesse Kriel tells Sky Sport NZ that his side "weren't up to scratch tonight".
"We made way too many handling errors and just things that weren't up to standard for us. But I mean all credit to New Zealand, I thought they were really good."
New Zealand 24-17 South Africa
10:07 , Luke BakerWhat a match that was. The All Blacks deserved winners in the end to climb back atop the Rugby Championship table.
Fortress Eden Park
10:00 , Luke BakerThey had to work hard but the All Blacks manage to continue their unbeaten record at Eden Park, which stretches back to 1994
That run at the Auckland fortress is now 51 matches, while the Springboks haven’t won there since 1937 - 88 years ago. It is truly remarkable
WATCH: New Zealand beat South Africa
09:58 , Luke BakerHere are the All Blacks tries from that incredible contest. The Springboks come up just short
A rapid start from the All Blacks against South Africa! 🔥
— Sky Sports Rugby Union (@SkySportsRugby) September 6, 2025
Watch live on Sky Sports+ and NOW 📺 pic.twitter.com/8DpIhrWnWZ
"They are on fire!"
— Sky Sports Rugby Union (@SkySportsRugby) September 6, 2025
The All Blacks storm in front against South Africa ⚡ pic.twitter.com/4tcStxxnLG
"They work it beautifully the All Blacks" 👏
— Sky Sports Rugby Union (@SkySportsRugby) September 6, 2025
New Zealand extend their lead over South Africa! 📈 pic.twitter.com/iQOXKTamNH
FULL-TIME! New Zealand 24-17 South Africa, 80 mins
09:54 , Luke BakerAND IT'S OVER! Wow, wow, wow. What a Test match. How good is international rugby union!
The All Blacks hold on. Somehow. And they preserve their incredible Eden Park record. Still undefeated there since 1994. What a win.
New Zealand 24-17 South Africa, 80 mins
09:53 , Luke BakerThe ball bounces loose but Kolbe scoops it up. The Boks have life still. Now they don’t! Turnover, Preston wins it back for New Zealand and they just need to kick it out!
New Zealand 24-17 South Africa, 80 mins
09:52 , Luke BakerThe siren goes but South Africa turn the ball over! They’ll have one more chance. They’re just outside the 22
New Zealand 24-17 South Africa, 80 mins
09:51 , Luke BakerNew Zealand win the lineout. Two phases to see out...
New Zealand 24-17 South Africa, 79 mins
09:51 , Luke BakerBUT IT’S A TURNOVER! Ardie Savea! Ardie Savea! On his 100th cap, he may just have won it for New Zealand.
Gets over the ball at the breakdown and WILL NOT be moved. Brilliant back row play, he wins the penalty and the All Blacks kick clear. Wow!
New Zealand 24-17 South Africa, 78 mins
09:50 , Luke BakerLienout secured but the maul collapses imemdiately. The Boks keep the ball tight and run a couple of phases around the breakdown. 10 metres out now.
New Zealand 24-17 South Africa, 77 mins
09:48 , Luke BakerThe All Blacks play the ball on the floor - on replay, that looks unlucky after a clean strip. South Africa penalty and kick to the corner. Lineout for the Boks in the 22...
New Zealand 24-17 South Africa, 76 mins
09:47 , Luke BakerThe intensity is on another level here. The Boks defence delivers big hit after big hit to repel the All Blacks and now they’re on the attack
TRY! New Zealand 24-17 South Africa (Cobus Reinach, 75 mins)
09:45 , Luke BakerDRAMA! We’re in for a grandstand finish here. South Africa pound away at the All Blacks defence and Cobus Reinach has a dart from five metres out. He dummies, snipes, stays low, slips between two tackles and dives over the line. The Boks have life!
Conversion added and it’s a one-score game entering the final five minutes.
New Zealand 24-10 South Africa, 73 mins
09:43 , Luke BakerHooker tries a chip over the top with Kriel in pursuit and it bounces awkwardly but Preston deals with it well and dots down behind his own line
New Zealand 24-10 South Africa, 72 mins
09:40 , Luke BakerSpringboks win a penalty and kick to the corner. Surely have to score a try here to have any chance in this contest?
New Zealand 24-10 South Africa, 70 mins
09:39 , Luke BakerSouth Africa immediately back on the attack - they’re down to 14 men with Smith’s sin-bin and in desperation mode.
They batter at the New Zealand defence but the hosts are holding firm.
TRY! New Zealand 24-10 South Africa (Quinn Tupaea, 68 mins)
09:36 , Luke BakerSustained pressure from five metres out but the Springboks hold firm.
The All Blacks go wide and THEY HAVE THE TRY! Quinn Tupaea on the crash ball, cuts inside a defender, shrugs off two more and dives over the line! Huge.
Easy conversion from in front of the posts and it’s a two-score lead for the hosts once more.
New Zealand 17-10 South Africa, 67 mins
09:34 , Luke BakerImmediate mistake by South Africa from the kick-off as they turn the ball over and concede a lineout in the 22.
The All Blacks almost go over but are illegally stopped and Kwagga Smith get sin-binned for his cynical foul. Back to the corner for the All Blacks...
TRY! New Zealand 17-10 South Africa (Malcolm Marx, 63 mins)
09:31 , Luke BakerBut the South Africans do have their score! The scrum is still working and they obliterate the New Zealand pack, driving them off the ball.
Smith then crashes for more metres before Malcolm Marx picks up and drives towards the line, getting over.
Conversion added and the Boks are right back in this.
New Zealand 17-3 South Africa, 62 mins
09:29 , Luke BakerClean lineout but when Smith pops the ball to De Allende on the wrapround, it’s a forward pass! This is so un-Springbok like today - the lack of accuracy is baffling.
Another chance goes begging.
New Zealand 17-3 South Africa, 61 mins
09:28 , Luke BakerSouth Africa win a scrum penalty just inside the New Zealand half and they kick into the 22. We’re starting to reach must-score territory, I think?
Kyle Preston on for Jordie Barrett, for a HIA.
New Zealand 17-3 South Africa, 60 mins
09:27 , Luke BakerSouth Africa having more territory in this second half but still no points to show for it. New Zealand are executing better in the key moments.
Kolbe tries to dance through defenders but is stopped. More subs, with Wallace Sititi having passed his HIA, so back on at No 8 for New Zealand, while 24-year-old Ethan Hooker is on for Pollard at fly half for the Springboks. Will that change their style of play at all?
New Zealand 17-3 South Africa, 57 mins
09:24 , Luke BakerMoodie claims a high ball nicely to set up the Boks and Feinberg-Mngomezulu produces a lovely offload out of the back of the hand to Kriel to surge into the 22.
The ball slows from there but South Africa are patient and run 10 orr 11 phases. But then a turnover! The All Black defence stiffens, they attack the breakdown, drive the Springboks off the ball and can clear.
New Zealand 17-3 South Africa, 54 mins
09:21 , Luke BakerIt was building nicely for South Africa as they entered the All Black 22 but again, poor execution in attack costs them dearly. Runners carelessly get in front of the ball-carrier, forming a block and are pinged for offside. This has been sloppy by the Springboks generally
New Zealand 17-3 South Africa, 52 mins
09:19 , Luke BakerThe bomb squad are slowly but surely being entered into the fray by the Springboks.
Lood de Jager and Kwagga Smith both now on
PENALTY! New Zealand 17-3 South Africa (Damian McKenzie, 50 mins)
09:18 , Luke BakerMore or less bang in front for McKenzie, just outside the 22 and he slots it. The All Blacks move back 14 points ahead.
New Zealand 14-3 South Africa, 49 mins
09:17 , Luke BakerThe Springboks start to ring the changes, initially in the backs, with Cobus Reinach on at scrum half and Sacha Feinberg-Mngomezulu also into the backline.
Meanwhile, the All Blacks scrummage well, Savea makes a barrelling run on his 100th cap and they win a penalty just outside the 22. Du Toit pinged for playing Christie off the ball. McKenzie will have a shy at the sticks.
New Zealand 14-3 South Africa, 46 mins
09:13 , Luke BakerHuge roars at Eden Park as the All Blacks win the turnover and properly clear their lines. What a defensive stand.
They’re now on the attack, some gorgeous offloading and a stunning Christie pass to Jordan makes big ground but Moodie scrambles well. Kriel then puts a huge hit in on Jordie Barrett to stop him in his tracks before Kolisi gets over the ball and the Boks win the turnover. Good work by South Africa.
Some changes for New Zealand as Du’Plessis Kirifi comes on for Sititi, who is off for a HIA, while Tyrel Lomax on in the front row for Newell.
New Zealand 14-3 South Africa, 43 mins
09:11 , Luke BakerThis is a breathless start to the second half! New Zealand win the defensive lineout but a pop pass goes awry and South Africa have it a couple of metres from the line.
Nche plunges towards the line but Ioane produces some stunning defensive work to get his hands underneath the ball, stay in the fight and prevent the dot-down. Goal-line dropout rather than a try! Big moment.
New Zealand 14-3 South Africa, 42 mins
09:09 , Luke BakerAlmost spectacular from the Springboks immediately. They spread the ball right, Kolbe weaves past a defender and dinks a lovely kick over the top.
He chases, with Savea in pursuit but the ball just takes a right bounce in the 22 and into touch, narrowly beyond Kolbe’s outstretched grasp.
KICK-OFF! New Zealand 14-3 South Africa
09:07 , Luke BakerBack underway at Eden Park. Can the Boks find a way to turn this round?
WATCH: Two sublime scores put All Blacks on top
08:58 , Luke BakerTwo lovely tries from New Zealand have them ahead at the break.
A rapid start from the All Blacks against South Africa! 🔥
— Sky Sports Rugby Union (@SkySportsRugby) September 6, 2025
Watch live on Sky Sports+ and NOW 📺 pic.twitter.com/8DpIhrWnWZ
"They are on fire!"
— Sky Sports Rugby Union (@SkySportsRugby) September 6, 2025
The All Blacks storm in front against South Africa ⚡ pic.twitter.com/4tcStxxnLG
HALF-TIME! New Zealand 14-3 South Africa
08:54 , Luke BakerAnd breathe! That was an incredibly compelling first 40 minutes - this much-anticipated Test match is delivering.
New Zealand have been on top as they look to protect their ridiculous Eden Park record. Two stunning tries from Emoni Narawa (who then went off injured) and Will Jordan put them on top and since then, they’ve done the fundamentals better to limit the Springboks.
It could be a day for the Boks’s famed ‘Bomb Squad’ because they need to change the narrative and tighten things up after the break. They’re still well in this game though.
New Zealand 14-3 South Africa, 40 mins
08:51 , Luke BakerBut, in a moment that is symptomatic of the first half, South Africa mess up the attacking lineout! The crowd get loud and maybe the call can’t be heard, it’s turned over and the All Blacks have a free-kick.
A big moment on the stroke of half-time.
New Zealand 14-3 South Africa, 39 mins
08:50 , Luke BakerIoane makes a few metres down the left before Newell neatly offloads to fellow prop De Groot but the South Africa defence push them back. Eventually it’s a kicking battle and Pollard delivers the crucial blow!
He thumps an arcing kick from his own half on the run that curves towards the touchline and bounces an inch inside before going out of play. 50-22! Huge! World class.
New Zealand 14-3 South Africa, 38 mins
08:48 , Luke BakerDu Toit wins the lineout cleanly and pops the ball down to Williams on the wraparound but the Boks scrum half fumbles it forward. He had room to run but instead it’s a turnover - scrappy from the visitors.
They try to pressure the New Zealand scrum but instead referee Karl Dickson penalises Du Toit, allowing the All Blacks to clear to halfway. A win for the NZ pack
New Zealand 14-3 South Africa, 36 mins
08:46 , Luke BakerGrant Williams receiving some attention from the physio, Perhaps a neck issue? He should be good to continue anyway.
The South African maul is well defended again but the All Blacks are then pinged, Vaa’i specifically, and Pollard boots the ball into the NZ 22. This is the perfect platform for the visitors four minutes before the break
New Zealand 14-3 South Africa, 34 mins
08:44 , Luke BakerThe All Blacks go to work again but Beauden Barrett gets hammered backwards by Moodie on a carry. Oof!
Disruptive breakdown work by the South African back row as Kolisi has a jackal but New Zealand somehow retain possession, although Christie has to goes to the air. Springboks just about deal with it and earn a scrum on their own 22 which they dominate and parlay into a penalty. The Boks front row are having their way with New Zealand.
New Zealand 14-3 South Africa, 31 mins
08:41 , Luke BakerBrilliant aerial work by McKenzie to claim the mark in his own 22 after Pollard hangs up a high bomb for Kolbe to chase. Clean as a whistle.
Skipper Scott Barrett then flicks a South African lineout back to the All Blacks side. The hosts run the phases as the crowd increase the noise levels. Saves probes down the right and tries a kick through but it’s blocked.
Codie Taylor off for a HIA, sustained when tackling Du Toit, and on comes Samisoni Taukei’aho
New Zealand 14-3 South Africa, 29 mins
08:37 , Luke BakerGreat lineout work by Nortje to pinch the ball away although the All Blacks respond with good pressure on Williams to block his clearance kick.
The Springboks recover and are able to eventually exit.
MISSED PENALTY! New Zealand 14-3 South Africa (Handre Pollard, 26 mins)
08:34 , Luke BakerNo dice with this one though. Pollard’s kick from 47 metres, on the angle, has the distance but slips narrowly wide of the left post. Frustration for South Africa
New Zealand 14-3 South Africa, 25 mins
08:33 , Luke BakerAnother penalty as Scott Barrett is pinged for obstruction. There’s wind in the faces of the Springboks, although I think that has died down a bit.
So Pollard will call for the tee once more
PENALTY! New Zealand 14-3 South Africa (Handre Pollard, 23 mins)
08:31 , Luke BakerVery telling that the Boks want to take the three when down 14. Shows the All Black dominance so far.
Handre Pollard duly gets them on the board.
New Zealand 14-0 South Africa, 22 mins
08:30 , Luke BakerThe Springbok scrum is dominant and they splinter the All Blacks front row once more. Ethan de Groot then gets pulverised and concedes the penalty.
The Boks opt to take the three
WATCH: Narawa gives New Zealand the perfect start
08:28 , Luke BakerHere’s how the All Blacks took the lead inside two minutes
A rapid start from the All Blacks against South Africa! 🔥
— Sky Sports Rugby Union (@SkySportsRugby) September 6, 2025
Watch live on Sky Sports+ and NOW 📺 pic.twitter.com/8DpIhrWnWZ
TRY! New Zealand 14-0 South Africa (Will Jordan, 19 mins)
08:26 , Luke BakerWOW! That is a wonderful, wonderful try. From the lineout, the All Blacks time the pass perfectly and Will Jordan crashes on to the ball. From there, it’s all Jordan.
He weaves past a defender, slips through another would-be tackle and dances under the posts for his 43rd New Zealand try. Incredible!
Easy conversion for McKenzie and the hosts are in complete control.
New Zealand 7-0 South Africa, 18 mins
08:24 , Luke BakerScrappy is the word at the moment but then a touch of class from Beauden Barrett! Pings a beautiful kick from his own half that bounces out of play in the 22. A 50-22 and an attacking platform for the All Blacks.
New Zealand 7-0 South Africa, 17 mins
08:23 , Luke BakerThe Boks pack turn up the heat on the scrum but New Zealand messily scramble the ball to the back to retain possession. That was definitely a Springbok win though.
Christie does well at the back to wrestle the ball away, takes a knee to form a ruck and the All blacks can clear. That was not pretty but hugely effective and important scrum-half play.
Again, South Africa try to maul the ball and Scott Barrett disrupts before Parker turns it over once the breakdown goes to floor. All Black defence has been superb so far.
New Zealand 7-0 South Africa, 14 mins
08:20 , Luke BakerBeauden Barrett caught offside on halfway and the Boks kick the penalty down towards the 22. The first real attacking platform of the day for the visitors.
Safely secured and De Allende crashes the ball up the middle. But Vaa’i and Scott Barrett are ready for the subsequent maul and attack the ball carrier to win the first scrum of the day. That looked like a planned move from South Africa and New Zealand were ready for it
New Zealand 7-0 South Africa, 11 mins
08:18 , Luke BakerThe rain is starting to cause a few more errors now, although Moodie just avoids a costly spill as he returns a long kick. Shifting the ball through the hands is significantly harder now.
It doesn’t stop the All Blacks pinching a lineout though.
New Zealand 7-0 South Africa, 9 mins
08:16 , Luke BakerAnother quick penalty for the All Blacks and they go to touch this time. Lineout is initially secured but they quickly spill the ball and the Springboks clear.
MISSED PENALTY! New Zealand 7-0 South Africa (Jordie Barrett, 7 mins)
08:15 , Luke BakerBarrett’s penalty from near halfway has the legs but drifts wide of the right post.
In far worse news for New Zealand though, try-scorer Emoni Narawa has hobbled off injured. He competed with Pollard for a high ball and took an accidental knee to the ribs. He was down for a couple of minutes and now exits, holding his ribs, with Damian McKenzie coming on. Not good
New Zealand 7-0 South Africa, 6 mins
08:13 , Luke BakerMy apologies, they’ll actually go for the posts - a long-range attempt from Jordie Barrett incoming.
New Zealand 7-0 South Africa, 5 mins
08:12 , Luke BakerScrappy lineout from South Africa, who have been caught slightly cold early on here. The rain is really coming down now, so the usual caveats about the ball being a bar of soap etc apply, I suppose.
High bombs being sent up from both sides to test the handling. Jordan then slides between tackles on halfway before the All Blacks probe down the left. They win the offside penalty and will kick towards the corner.
TRY! New Zealand 7-0 South Africa (Emoni Narawa, 2 mins)
08:10 , Luke BakerOH MY WORD! What a start for New Zealand. Off the lineout, Beauden Barrett launches a cross-field kick that a diving Emoni Narawa catches on the left touchline and slides under Le Roux’s tackle.
Narawa is back to his feet, charging down the line, throws a dummy inside and goes over the whitewash. Sublime play. And Jordie Barrett nails the conversion for good measure. Wow!
New Zealand 0-0 South Africa, 2 mins
08:08 , Luke BakerNot a great clearing kick from Christie as he misses touch but the Boks turn the ball over and Jordan fires a kick that sends Kolbe scampering back into his own 22 and behind his own line. An early lineout on the 22 for the All Blacks.
KICK-OFF! New Zealand 0-0 South Africa
08:07 , Luke BakerHaka complete and we're underway in Auckland. Handre Pollard launches the ball skywards to get us going
The All Blacks have not lost at Eden Park since 1994, the Springboks haven't won here since 1937 (although they're playing here for the first time in 12 years). This could be epic.
Anthems done
08:03 , Luke BakerRousing, emotional renditions of the two national anthems - the atmosphere inside Eden Park is fizzing. Kick-off is moments away.
IN PICTURES: Fans ready for action
07:59 , Luke BakerFans are ready for what should be an absolute cracker - is that Eden Park record under threat?
These Boks fans that have travelled (and taken sign-related shots at All Blacks Scott Robertson) will certainly hope so
New Zealand vs South Africa match officials
07:52 , Harry Latham-CoyleReferee: Karl Dickson (Eng)
ARs: Nika Amashukeli (Geo) & Jordan Way (Aus)
TMO: Brett Cronan (Aus)
FPRO: Eric Gauzins (Fra)
All change at No 9
07:45 , Harry Latham-CoyleNeither Finlay Christie nor Kyle Preston was initially named in the New Zealand squad for this tournament, but an injury crisis at scrum half has forced Scott Robertson to go deeper into his stocks than he might have hoped. All of Cam Roigard, Cortez Ratima and Noah Hotham are currently injured, leaving Preston in line for a debut off the bench in comfortably the biggest occasion of his rugby life so far.
"He's always stepped up to every occasion he's had and the next one could be the biggest stage,” Scott Robertson said this week of the Crusaders half-back. “We've got him ready over the last three to four weeks to be ready for it."
It is helpful, though, to have a nine as experienced as Christie to start. The 29-year-old hasn’t always hit his best form in an All Blacks shirt but featured at the 2023 World Cup and is a very, very solid option to possess as your fourth-choice.
Rassie Erasmus explains Siya Kolisi selection
07:35 , Harry Latham-CoyleA few eyebrows were raised when Rassie Erasmus named his Springboks side this week - in part because the South Africa coach waited until Thursday to do so rather than naming on Tuesday, as is his custom. But more eye-catching, of course, was that Siya Kolisi was in the starting team yet not captain, Jesse Kriel retaining his place as skipper even with Kolisi fit to feature.
“Siya was touch and go for the match earlier in the week after picking up a niggle a few weeks ago, and we didn’t want to risk him unnecessarily,” Erasmus explained, revealing that Kriel had been pencilled in as captain when Kolisi’s status as in doubt. “But with Jean-Luc du Preez having picked up a niggle at training this week, Siya was the obvious choice to slot in at number eight.
"I think scrum times is going to be big for both teams and both teams have been scrumming well. With the team they have selected, it's got a lot of guys that's fighting hard at the breakdown. But I think in all areas of the game, it is going to be massively competitive."
100 up for Ardie Savea
07:25 , Harry Latham-CoyleIt will be a proud night for Ardie Savea, the exceptional flanker bringing up a century of caps in just the sort of occasion he will relish. Once dismissed as too small to make it as an international back row, Savea has proved the critics wrong and established himself both as one of the All Blacks’ best individuals and most important leaders. Still an uber athlete, he remains as crucial to the side now as early in his career, and is looking forward to his landmark outing.
"You couldn't ask for anything more as a footy player, I guess," Savea said this week.
"We hugely respect the Springboks, and we hugely respect Eden Park ... It's a great challenge, and something that is going to be hard and tough, but something for all of us to look towards.
“"On the bus today, I had time to just to sit back and reflect on the journey for me. I always try and remind myself that every time I put on the black jersey, it's a blessing. And it just happens to be the 100th time this weekend.
"I'm grateful for this team, the coaches, the players, the past players and coaches, just everyone has been part of this legacy. That's part of who I represent, and the reason why I play."
Team news - South Africa
07:15 , Harry Latham-CoyleSouth Africa welcome back Siya Kolisi and Pieter-Steph du Toit into their starting back row, a significant boost for Rassie Erasmus and his side. A settled, highly experienced side is named with Willie le Roux fit to start at full-back having withdrawn a fortnight ago with a niggle, while Jesse Kriel retains the captaincy ahead of Kolisi with the regular skipper having been “touch and go” for this game earlier this week.
South Africa XV: 1 Ox Nche, 2 Malcolm Marx, 3 Thomas du Toit; 4 Eben Etzebeth, 5 Ruan Nortje; 6 Marco van Staden, 7 Pieter-Steph du Toit, 8 Siya Kolisi; 9 Grant Williams, 10 Handre Pollard; 11 Canan Moodie, 12 Damian de Allende, 13 Jesse Kriel (capt.), 14 Cheslin Kolbe; 15 Willie le Roux.
Replacements: 16 Jan-Hendrik Wessels, 17 Boan Venter, 18 Wilco Louw, 19 Lood de Jager, 20 Kwagga Smith; 21 Cobus Reinach, 22 Sacha Feinberg-Mngomezulu, 23 Ethan Hooker.
Rassie Erasmus has named a settled side for Saturday's Test against the All Blacks in Auckland 🤝
— Springboks (@Springboks) September 4, 2025
Catch all the action live on @SuperSportTV 📺#Springboks #ForeverGreenForeverGold
Team news - New Zealand
07:10 , Harry Latham-CoyleFlanker Ardie Savea wins his 100th New Zealand cap, following teammate Codie Taylor to the landmark as the second All Blacks centurion in two weeks. With Scott Robertson shorn of three scrum halves due to injury, Finlay Christie is given the No 9 shirt with Kyle Preson awaiting a debut off the bench.
New Zealand XV: 1 Ethan de Groot, 2 Codie Taylor, 3 Fletcher Newell; 4 Scott Barrett (capt.), 5 Tupou Vaa’i; 6 Simon Parker, 7 Ardie Savea, 8 Wallace Sititi; 9 Finlay Christie, 10 Beauden Barrett; 11 Rieko Ioane, 12 Jordie Barrett, 13 Billy Proctor, 14 Emoni Narawa; 15 Will Jordan.
Replacements: 16 Samisoni Taukei’aho, 17 Tamaiti Williams, 18 Tyrel Lomax, 19 Fabian Holland, 20 Du’Plessis Kirifi; 21 Kyle Preston, 22 Quinn Tupaea, 23 Damian McKenzie.
This will be huge! 🔥#ASAV100 pic.twitter.com/PkG5HBtWwI
— All Blacks (@AllBlacks) September 4, 2025
All Blacks coach Scott Robertson ready for clash of styles in Auckland
07:00 , Harry Latham-CoyleNew Zealand head coach Scott Robertson is ready for a clash of styles at Eden Park as he seeks an improved all-around showing from his side after defeat to Argentina last time out.
“We've had some parts of our game that have been awesome and then some parts we have to get better at, and it hasn't quite all come together. It's a good week to make it happen,” Robertson said this week.
“One plays two in the world; all eyes are watching. It's exciting for us as a country. We've got a record we are proud of. We understand the figures, the history, the facts and the occasion. Human bodies get prepared by how the mind thinks, and half of New Zealand is coming.
“We know it's coming, and that's all part of the game. Rugby's a game of strengths; they've got theirs and we've got ours—two different styles. We'll back our skills, and they will play theirs, which have strengthened and earned them many trophies.”
Recent success counts for little, stresses Cheslin Kolbe
06:45 , ReutersSouth Africa are on a four-game winning streak against old foes New Zealand but face the daunting challenge of a Rugby Championship fixture in Auckland, which wing Cheslin Kolbe admits is a test of their indifferent form this season.
South Africa have had a mixed start to the defence of their title, with a stunning 38-22 loss to Australia at their own fortress of Ellis Park in Johannesburg, and a gritty 30-22 win over the same opponents in Cape Town.
Despite recent success over the All Blacks, including a 12-11 victory in the 2023 Rugby World Cup final, facing the All Blacks at Eden Park, where the hosts have not lost since 1994 and the Springboks not won a Test since 1937, is a challenge on another level.
"The past is the past, for us it is quite simple. Every chance you get to play against New Zealand, with the history behind the fixture, is massive," Kolbe told reporters in Auckland on Tuesday.
"We are playing against the number one team in the world currently and that is how you want to measure yourself as an individual and a team."
Argentina on top against Australia
06:37 , Harry Latham-CoyleThe day’s first game of a Rugby Championship double helping is well underway in Townsville, where Argentina are in control having surged into a 21-7 lead over Australia - and playing some scintillating rugby. Wings Mateo Carreras and Bautista Delguy have both gone over for mighty fine scores, with the Pumas showing off their trademark ball movement to exploit a few backline vulnerabilities in the Wallabies defence.
Ready for more?
06:30 , Harry Latham-CoyleThis is the first of two meetings between New Zealand and South Africa this year, one of the sport’s defining contests always providing encounters to relish. In 2026, the two sides will begin a new touring agreement that will see the All Blacks take on the Springboks on South African soil in a series that is set to be sold with the tagline of “Rugby’s Greatest Rivalry” - exact details are still to be confirmed but a significant shake-up to southern hemisphere rugby is on the way.
Why an uncertain future could set up a thrilling Rugby Championship
All Blacks turn to ‘The Professor’ ahead of Springboks showdown in Rugby Championship
06:15 , Harry Latham-CoyleNew Zealand are drawing on "gold nuggets" of wisdom from coaching guru Wayne Smith as they prepared for today’s heavyweight Rugby Championship clash against world champions South Africa at Eden Park.
Smith, the former All Blacks assistant coach dubbed "The Professor" for his tactical mind, joined the camp in Auckland this week in a mentoring role, a move attack coach Scott Hansen said was planned well in advance.
All Blacks turn to ‘The Professor’ ahead of Springboks showdown in Rugby Championship
Formidable Eden Park record on the line
06:05 , Harry Latham-CoyleIt is 31 years since New Zealand were last beaten at Eden Park, today’s venue, a 50-match streak that began with an 18-all draw with South Africa. From World Cup glory in 2011 to a dramatic draw with the British and Irish Lions in 2017, the Auckland annals are deep and rich - and the Springboks are relishing the opportunity to try and snap the streak.
“The magnitude of the game is something that excites me," stand-in captain Jesse Kriel told reporters on Friday.
"I think as a competitor, and most guys will say the same thing, you want to be involved in the biggest of test matches and this is right up there.
"You want to test yourself against the best, whether it's in your position, or whether it's (against a team higher) in the world rankings.
"It doesn't get any bigger and any more exciting than this for a player."
New Zealand vs South Africa live
Friday 5 September 2025 08:46 , Harry Latham-CoyleNew Zealand and South Africa collide in a mighty meeting of southern hemisphere heavyweights as the pair renew their rivalry in a crunch clash. After shock defeats in rounds two and one respectively, this fixture, the first of back-to-back meetings, could well prove vital in determining the destination of this year’s Rugby Championship crown.
Kick off at Eden Park is at 8.05am BST.
