All Blacks stun Springboks with commanding victory in South Africa rugby series opener

23 Aug 2026 • 2:14 AM MYT
The Independent
The Independent

The world’s most free-thinking newspaper

All Blacks stun Springboks with commanding victory in South Africa rugby series opener

  • New Zealand secured a dominant 33-16 victory over world champions South Africa at Ellis Park to take a 1-0 lead in the landmark tour.
  • The All Blacks outscored the hosts by five tries to one, capitalising on South African handling errors and poor discipline.
  • The emphatic win ended the Springboks' 12-match winning streak and puts New Zealand ahead in the Rugby's Greatest Rivalry series.
  • South Africa must now win all three remaining Tests if they are to secure an overall series victory.
  • The Springboks face further concerns with injuries to key wingers Cheslin Kolbe and Kurt-Lee Arendse ahead of the second Test in seven days.

IN FULL

Newswav Malaysia Best News App

Newswav is an online content aggregator and obtains its content from different online sources. The content in the app do not belong to Newswav nor do they reflect the opinions of Newswav and its staff. Your use of this app indicates your understanding and acceptance of this information.

Newswav Sdn. Bhd. (201701008480 (1222645-M)) 2026 All Rights Reserved