Connect with us

KEO News Wire

Jonny Wilkinson picks his British & Irish Lions No 10

Published

on

England World Cup winner and British & Irish rugby legend Jonny Wilkinson is among the most celebrated No 10s to have ever played the game. When he talks No 10s, you listen. Well, he’s talking No 10s for the British & Irish Lions three-Test series against South Africa. And, if Wilkinson were the sole selector he wouldn’t be choosing England’s Owen Farrell to start the first Test at No 10.

Wilkinson knows Farrell will be on the tour, given his ability to play flyhalf and inside centre. He also knows that Lions coach Warren Gatland rates Farrell.

However, in an interview on RugbyPass, Wilkinson listed his top four Lions flyhalf candidates, and Farrell came in fourth.

Wilkinson summarised the merits of the four flyhalf contenders, one from each of England, Scotland, Wales and Ireland, and opted for Wales’s Dan Biggar as his first choice.

Here’s what Wilkinson had to say:

No 4: Owen Farrell:  He was great back in 2017. The Lions team really turned up against the World Cup champions and gave as good as they got. He’ll be in and around the squad again.

No 3: Finn Russel: He’s a game winner, and is probably one of the most exciting players not only at fly-half, but in world rugby. He could really ignite a bit of flair in the team and get everyone else playing. He has the it-factor.

No 2: Jonny Sexton: ‘I think younger me would go straight for Johnny Sexton as he’s a guy that you know exactly what you’re getting in terms of control of the game. He seems to be able to wear the world on his shoulders, which you need on a Lions tour.

No 1:  Dan Biggar: He’s got a real mix of all the other options on the table and brings a bit of everything to the party. He has a really interesting energy about him aswell, which I really like.

England’s Wilkinson played 91 Tests for England and six for the Lions and scored 1246 Test points. He won the World Cup with England in 2003, kicking an extra time right footed drop goal to beat Australia.

 

 

216 Comments

216 Comments

  1. binance Registrera dig

    9th December 2024 at 11:39 pm

    Thank you for your sharing. I am worried that I lack creative ideas. It is your article that makes me full of hope. Thank you. But, I have a question, can you help me?

  2. binance kayit ol

    21st April 2025 at 5:18 pm

    Thanks for sharing. I read many of your blog posts, cool, your blog is very good.

  3. бнанс

    13th August 2025 at 1:42 pm

    Your article helped me a lot, is there any more related content? Thanks!

  4. binance referral bonus

    30th August 2025 at 10:45 am

    Thank you for your sharing. I am worried that I lack creative ideas. It is your article that makes me full of hope. Thank you. But, I have a question, can you help me?

  5. Nick Kirtdoll

    16th December 2025 at 11:34 am

    Deference to author, some fantastic information .

  6. fdertol mrtokev

    20th December 2025 at 8:58 am

    he blog was how do i say it… relevant, finally something that helped me. Thanks

  7. Javier Jacomet

    30th December 2025 at 10:00 am

    I have recently started a web site, the info you offer on this website has helped me tremendously. Thank you for all of your time & work.

  8. live sports streaming free

    13th January 2026 at 12:37 am

    A person necessarily help to make critically articles I would state. That is the very first time I frequented your website page and so far? I amazed with the analysis you made to create this actual post amazing. Great activity!

  9. herramienta de analítica web

    13th January 2026 at 4:51 pm

    You made a number of nice points there. I did a search on the issue and found nearly all persons will go along with with your blog.

  10. blog praia do rosa

    14th January 2026 at 12:06 am

    Someone essentially assist to make severely articles I might state. That is the first time I frequented your website page and to this point? I amazed with the analysis you made to create this actual post amazing. Fantastic task!

  11. rateio concurso

    14th January 2026 at 6:13 am

    It’s actually a great and useful piece of information. I’m glad that you shared this useful info with us. Please keep us informed like this. Thanks for sharing.

  12. tlovertonet

    14th January 2026 at 6:51 pm

    What i don’t realize is actually how you are now not really much more well-favored than you may be now. You’re very intelligent. You already know thus significantly in terms of this subject, made me for my part believe it from numerous numerous angles. Its like women and men don’t seem to be fascinated unless it¦s something to accomplish with Lady gaga! Your individual stuffs nice. At all times deal with it up!

  13. luxury car rental Malaysia

    14th January 2026 at 11:55 pm

    Woh I love your content, saved to fav! .

  14. solar power water heater Malaysia

    15th January 2026 at 1:29 am

    Very interesting details you have noted, thankyou for putting up.

  15. Techtra Automotive Academy Malaysia

    15th January 2026 at 6:54 am

    Really Appreciate this blog post, can I set it up so I receive an update sent in an email when there is a new update?

  16. arranjo floral recife

    15th January 2026 at 8:57 am

    Excellent post. I was checking constantly this blog and I am impressed! Extremely helpful information specially the last part 🙂 I care for such info much. I was seeking this certain information for a very long time. Thank you and good luck.

  17. free slot games

    15th January 2026 at 9:53 am

    I’m typically to blogging and i really recognize your content. The article has really peaks my interest. I am going to bookmark your website and hold checking for new information.

  18. Techtrics Auto

    15th January 2026 at 7:50 pm

    I gotta favorite this website it seems extremely helpful very useful

  19. kilat333

    16th January 2026 at 3:04 pm

    I am constantly searching online for tips that can help me. Thank you!

  20. kilat333

    16th January 2026 at 6:39 pm

    I have not checked in here for a while because I thought it was getting boring, but the last few posts are great quality so I guess I’ll add you back to my everyday bloglist. You deserve it my friend 🙂

  21. corporate hosting

    16th January 2026 at 10:31 pm

    Thanks for the marvelous posting! I seriously enjoyed reading it, you may be a great author.I will always bookmark your blog and will come back sometime soon. I want to encourage one to continue your great writing, have a nice day!

  22. dkwin login

    17th January 2026 at 7:06 pm

    I adore assembling useful info, this post has got me even more info! .

  23. neurodyne review

    18th January 2026 at 12:13 am

    Hi there, You have done an excellent job. I’ll certainly digg it and personally recommend to my friends. I am confident they will be benefited from this web site.

  24. kerassentials review

    18th January 2026 at 8:06 am

    I will right away grab your rss as I can’t find your e-mail subscription link or newsletter service. Do you’ve any? Please let me know so that I could subscribe. Thanks.

  25. neuro sharp

    18th January 2026 at 1:44 pm

    It’s really a nice and helpful piece of information. I’m glad that you shared this useful info with us. Please keep us up to date like this. Thanks for sharing.

  26. clogs 47

    18th January 2026 at 2:51 pm

    Excellent read, I just passed this onto a friend who was doing a little research on that. And he just bought me lunch because I found it for him smile So let me rephrase that: Thanks for lunch! “The future is not something we enter. The future is something we create.” by Leonard I. Sweet.

  27. pink salt trick

    18th January 2026 at 4:52 pm

    Great tremendous issues here. I?¦m very happy to peer your post. Thank you a lot and i am having a look ahead to contact you. Will you please drop me a e-mail?

  28. gelatin trick

    18th January 2026 at 9:16 pm

    I really appreciate this post. I have been looking everywhere for this! Thank goodness I found it on Bing. You’ve made my day! Thanks again

  29. pcxwin

    18th January 2026 at 9:28 pm

    I do not even know how I ended up here, but I thought this post was great. I don’t know who you are but definitely you’re going to a famous blogger if you aren’t already 😉 Cheers!

  30. royal138

    19th January 2026 at 2:39 am

    Very interesting details you have mentioned, thanks for putting up.

  31. gelatin trick for weight loss

    19th January 2026 at 5:19 am

    I like this site its a master peace ! Glad I found this on google .

  32. kilat333 link

    19th January 2026 at 12:57 pm

    Wow! Thank you! I continually needed to write on my site something like that. Can I take a part of your post to my website?

  33. lgopro99

    19th January 2026 at 6:23 pm

    This is a topic close to my heart cheers, where are your contact details though?

  34. Michaelglove

    19th January 2026 at 7:17 pm

  35. susterslot

    19th January 2026 at 10:34 pm

    Nice post. I was checking continuously this blog and I am impressed! Very useful information particularly the last part 🙂 I care for such info a lot. I was looking for this certain info for a long time. Thank you and good luck.

  36. lgopro99

    19th January 2026 at 11:56 pm

    As I website possessor I believe the content material here is rattling wonderful , appreciate it for your hard work. You should keep it up forever! Good Luck.

  37. bandar togel

    20th January 2026 at 12:56 am

    I see something truly special in this web site.

  38. motion graphics design

    20th January 2026 at 6:27 am

    Somebody essentially help to make seriously posts I would state. This is the first time I frequented your website page and thus far? I surprised with the research you made to create this particular publish amazing. Excellent job!

  39. top up royal dream

    20th January 2026 at 8:13 am

    But a smiling visitant here to share the love (:, btw outstanding style and design. “Make the most of your regrets… . To regret deeply is to live afresh.” by Henry David Thoreau.

  40. Michaelglove

    20th January 2026 at 9:07 am

  41. Michaelglove

    20th January 2026 at 12:10 pm

  42. royal138

    20th January 2026 at 5:05 pm

    Some really nice and utilitarian info on this website , as well I think the design holds good features.

  43. zaborna torilon

    20th January 2026 at 8:52 pm

    Absolutely pent content material, appreciate it for entropy. “The bravest thing you can do when you are not brave is to profess courage and act accordingly.” by Corra Harris.

  44. citrus burn

    21st January 2026 at 4:36 pm

    Good day! I know this is kind of off topic but I was wondering which blog platform are you using for this website? I’m getting sick and tired of WordPress because I’ve had issues with hackers and I’m looking at options for another platform. I would be awesome if you could point me in the direction of a good platform.

  45. optivell

    21st January 2026 at 8:16 pm

    I am no longer certain where you are getting your information, however good topic. I needs to spend a while learning much more or working out more. Thank you for fantastic info I was in search of this info for my mission.

  46. optivell

    22nd January 2026 at 12:13 am

    Sweet website , super layout, rattling clean and utilize genial.

  47. kilat333

    22nd January 2026 at 7:07 am

    As soon as I found this web site I went on reddit to share some of the love with them.

  48. at-home blueberry sight repair method

    22nd January 2026 at 10:15 am

    I would like to show some thanks to this writer just for rescuing me from this particular issue. Right after surfing through the the web and getting thoughts which are not beneficial, I figured my entire life was gone. Being alive without the solutions to the problems you have solved by means of the posting is a crucial case, as well as those which could have negatively affected my entire career if I hadn’t discovered your web page. Your own personal understanding and kindness in touching all the details was important. I’m not sure what I would’ve done if I had not come across such a stuff like this. I can at this moment relish my future. Thanks so much for the high quality and result oriented guide. I won’t think twice to refer your blog to anyone who would need recommendations on this issue.

  49. simple vision protocol

    22nd January 2026 at 3:33 pm

    hi!,I really like your writing very much! percentage we be in contact extra about your post on AOL? I require an expert on this house to resolve my problem. Maybe that’s you! Looking ahead to peer you.

  50. fizzclean review

    22nd January 2026 at 6:56 pm

    Its like you read my mind! You seem to know a lot about this, like you wrote the book in it or something. I think that you could do with a few pics to drive the message home a little bit, but other than that, this is great blog. A great read. I’ll certainly be back.

  51. fizzclean review

    22nd January 2026 at 9:23 pm

    I always was concerned in this topic and stock still am, thankyou for putting up.

  52. flixy tv

    23rd January 2026 at 7:39 am

    hello!,I like your writing so much! share we communicate more about your article on AOL? I need a specialist on this area to solve my problem. May be that’s you! Looking forward to see you.

  53. flixy tv stick

    23rd January 2026 at 9:40 am

    Cool blog! Is your theme custom made or did you download it from somewhere? A theme like yours with a few simple adjustements would really make my blog jump out. Please let me know where you got your theme. Many thanks

  54. nuroclean

    23rd January 2026 at 2:25 pm

    You made some decent points there. I looked on the internet for the topic and found most persons will agree with your website.

  55. nuro clean mold remover gel

    23rd January 2026 at 4:53 pm

    Do you have a spam problem on this blog; I also am a blogger, and I was wondering your situation; we have developed some nice practices and we are looking to exchange solutions with others, be sure to shoot me an email if interested.

  56. wellaheat heated socks

    23rd January 2026 at 9:11 pm

    I simply couldn’t leave your web site before suggesting that I extremely loved the usual information a person supply for your guests? Is going to be back frequently in order to check out new posts

  57. jc floricultura penha sc

    23rd January 2026 at 9:23 pm

    I¦ve read several just right stuff here. Certainly value bookmarking for revisiting. I wonder how a lot effort you put to create this sort of excellent informative web site.

  58. Compro joias

    24th January 2026 at 11:56 am

    After all, what a great site and informative posts, I will upload inbound link – bookmark this web site? Regards, Reader.

  59. wuffy robot puppy

    24th January 2026 at 1:16 pm

    Whats up very cool blog!! Man .. Excellent .. Wonderful .. I will bookmark your site and take the feeds also?KI am happy to search out so many useful information here within the submit, we’d like develop more strategies in this regard, thanks for sharing. . . . . .

  60. iblbet login

    24th January 2026 at 3:26 pm

    Nice post. I used to be checking continuously this weblog and I am impressed! Very useful info specially the ultimate section 🙂 I handle such info much. I used to be looking for this certain info for a very long time. Thanks and good luck.

  61. wuffy review

    24th January 2026 at 5:33 pm

    I haven’t checked in here for a while since I thought it was getting boring, but the last few posts are great quality so I guess I’ll add you back to my everyday bloglist. You deserve it my friend 🙂

  62. kilat333

    24th January 2026 at 9:41 pm

    Hi there, just became alert to your blog through Google, and found that it’s really informative. I’m gonna watch out for brussels. I’ll be grateful if you continue this in future. Numerous people will be benefited from your writing. Cheers!

  63. kilat333

    25th January 2026 at 4:05 am

    Having read this I thought it was very informative. I appreciate you taking the time and effort to put this article together. I once again find myself spending way to much time both reading and commenting. But so what, it was still worth it!

  64. i.p.t.v.

    25th January 2026 at 4:20 pm

    Great blog here! Also your website loads up very fast! What web host are you using? Can I get your affiliate link to your host? I wish my site loaded up as fast as yours lol

  65. lotto champ review

    25th January 2026 at 7:34 pm

    Hi there very cool blog!! Guy .. Beautiful .. Wonderful .. I’ll bookmark your website and take the feeds alsoKI’m glad to seek out so many helpful information here in the put up, we need develop more strategies on this regard, thanks for sharing. . . . . .

  66. men balance pro

    26th January 2026 at 12:43 am

    I found your blog site on google and verify just a few of your early posts. Proceed to maintain up the very good operate. I just additional up your RSS feed to my MSN News Reader. Searching for forward to studying extra from you in a while!…

  67. collaboration software

    26th January 2026 at 1:49 am

    You are my inspiration , I possess few blogs and occasionally run out from to brand : (.

  68. tkwin

    26th January 2026 at 3:52 am

    Regards for helping out, wonderful info .

  69. optivell review

    26th January 2026 at 11:44 am

    Some genuinely great info , Gladiolus I noticed this.

  70. robot hardware specifications

    26th January 2026 at 12:01 pm

    I used to be suggested this website by means of my cousin. I am now not certain whether this put up is written by way of him as no one else know such targeted approximately my trouble. You are wonderful! Thank you!

  71. bariatric gelatin trick

    26th January 2026 at 2:45 pm

    I visited a lot of website but I conceive this one has something extra in it in it

  72. jello diet trend 2026

    26th January 2026 at 6:48 pm

    I have been examinating out some of your posts and it’s pretty nice stuff. I will definitely bookmark your site.

  73. gelatin trick recipe

    27th January 2026 at 1:13 am

    Usually I don’t read article on blogs, but I would like to say that this write-up very forced me to try and do so! Your writing style has been amazed me. Thanks, quite nice post.

  74. the brain song

    27th January 2026 at 3:32 am

    I couldn’t resist commenting

  75. slot gacor

    27th January 2026 at 6:57 am

    I cherished as much as you will receive performed right here. The caricature is attractive, your authored subject matter stylish. however, you command get bought an edginess over that you want be delivering the following. sick indubitably come more until now once more since precisely the same just about a lot steadily inside case you defend this increase.

  76. kilat333

    27th January 2026 at 12:33 pm

    I?¦ve recently started a blog, the information you provide on this website has helped me tremendously. Thank you for all of your time & work.

  77. iptv assinar

    27th January 2026 at 9:27 pm

    It’s a pity you don’t have a donate button! I’d certainly donate to this superb blog! I guess for now i’ll settle for bookmarking and adding your RSS feed to my Google account. I look forward to fresh updates and will talk about this website with my Facebook group. Chat soon!

  78. royal138 pengacara korporasi

    28th January 2026 at 2:29 am

    WONDERFUL Post.thanks for share..more wait .. …

  79. wholesale jewelry

    28th January 2026 at 9:22 am

    You are a very capable person!

  80. silver jewelry factory

    28th January 2026 at 11:18 am

    Almost all of what you mention happens to be supprisingly precise and that makes me wonder the reason why I hadn’t looked at this with this light previously. This particular article really did switch the light on for me as far as this subject goes. Nonetheless there is just one factor I am not necessarily too comfy with so whilst I make an effort to reconcile that with the central idea of your issue, allow me see what the rest of your visitors have to point out.Very well done.

  81. david hoffmeister wikipedia

    29th January 2026 at 11:16 am

    Very interesting subject, regards for putting up. “Men who never get carried away should be.” by Malcolm Forbes.

  82. wikiwax blog

    29th January 2026 at 2:38 pm

    Everything is very open and very clear explanation of issues. was truly information. Your website is very useful. Thanks for sharing.

  83. igm247

    29th January 2026 at 7:59 pm

    Thanks for sharing excellent informations. Your web-site is very cool. I’m impressed by the details that you have on this website. It reveals how nicely you perceive this subject. Bookmarked this web page, will come back for more articles. You, my friend, ROCK! I found simply the information I already searched all over the place and simply couldn’t come across. What a great website.

  84. cheap airline tickets usa

    30th January 2026 at 7:02 am

    USA Flights 24 — search engine helps you compare prices from hundreds of airlines and travel sites in seconds — so you can find cheap flights fast. Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway, a cross-country adventure, or an international vacation, we make it easy to fly for less.

  85. bariatric gelatin trick

    30th January 2026 at 11:24 am

    Great post. I used to be checking continuously this blog and I am impressed! Very helpful information specially the final part 🙂 I care for such info a lot. I was seeking this certain information for a long time. Thanks and good luck.

  86. gelatin trick recipe

    30th January 2026 at 3:37 pm

    I always was concerned in this subject and stock still am, thanks for posting.

  87. gelatin trick for weight loss

    30th January 2026 at 6:21 pm

    I got good info from your blog

  88. gelatin trick

    31st January 2026 at 8:16 am

    I have been exploring for a bit for any high quality articles or blog posts on this kind of area . Exploring in Yahoo I at last stumbled upon this web site. Reading this information So i am happy to convey that I’ve a very good uncanny feeling I discovered just what I needed. I most certainly will make sure to do not forget this website and give it a glance on a constant basis.

  89. gelatin trick

    31st January 2026 at 12:31 pm

    You have noted very interesting details ! ps nice web site.

  90. top up royal dream

    2nd February 2026 at 5:33 am

    I am often to blogging and i actually appreciate your content. The article has really peaks my interest. I am going to bookmark your site and hold checking for brand spanking new information.

  91. gullybet india

    2nd February 2026 at 6:34 am

    Greetings! I’ve been reading your site for a while now and finally got the bravery to go ahead and give you a shout out from Kingwood Texas! Just wanted to say keep up the good work!

  92. pcxwin login

    2nd February 2026 at 8:23 am

    I got what you intend,bookmarked, very decent site.

  93. Custom photo NETS FlashPay card

    2nd February 2026 at 11:38 am

    Would love to always get updated great blog! .

  94. ethical hacking laws and regulations

    2nd February 2026 at 12:40 pm

    As a Newbie, I am always browsing online for articles that can be of assistance to me. Thank you

  95. top up royal dream

    2nd February 2026 at 4:05 pm

    Those are yours alright! . We at least need to get these people stealing images to start blogging! They probably just did a image search and grabbed them. They look good though!

  96. solar power systems

    3rd February 2026 at 9:39 pm

    Very interesting information!Perfect just what I was searching for!

  97. led face mask

    4th February 2026 at 4:21 am

    Hmm is anyone else having problems with the pictures on this blog loading? I’m trying to find out if its a problem on my end or if it’s the blog. Any responses would be greatly appreciated.

  98. david hoffmeister wikipedia

    4th February 2026 at 9:56 am

    I’m not sure exactly why but this blog is loading very slow for me. Is anyone else having this problem or is it a problem on my end? I’ll check back later on and see if the problem still exists.

  99. flixy tv

    4th February 2026 at 11:39 am

    Regards for all your efforts that you have put in this. very interesting info .

  100. flixy tv

    4th February 2026 at 1:47 pm

    Hey, you used to write wonderful, but the last several posts have been kinda boringK I miss your great writings. Past few posts are just a little bit out of track! come on!

  101. how to make gcmaf yogurt

    4th February 2026 at 4:03 pm

    Hmm it appears like your site ate my first comment (it was extremely long) so I guess I’ll just sum it up what I had written and say, I’m thoroughly enjoying your blog. I too am an aspiring blog blogger but I’m still new to everything. Do you have any recommendations for novice blog writers? I’d definitely appreciate it.

  102. flixy tv stick

    4th February 2026 at 7:33 pm

    I do believe all the concepts you’ve presented for your post. They are really convincing and will definitely work. Nonetheless, the posts are too brief for beginners. Could you please prolong them a bit from next time? Thank you for the post.

  103. vigor long review

    4th February 2026 at 11:19 pm

    Hello, you used to write magnificent, but the last few posts have been kinda boring… I miss your super writings. Past several posts are just a little bit out of track! come on!

  104. tonic greens

    5th February 2026 at 2:18 am

    As I web-site possessor I believe the content matter here is rattling fantastic , appreciate it for your efforts. You should keep it up forever! Best of luck.

  105. tesla begagnad

    5th February 2026 at 4:45 am

    With havin so much content do you ever run into any issues of plagorism or copyright violation? My website has a lot of completely unique content I’ve either written myself or outsourced but it seems a lot of it is popping it up all over the web without my agreement. Do you know any ways to help prevent content from being ripped off? I’d certainly appreciate it.

  106. boostaro reviews

    5th February 2026 at 2:49 pm

    naturally like your web site however you have to test the spelling on several of your posts. Many of them are rife with spelling problems and I find it very troublesome to tell the truth however I will definitely come back again.

  107. herpafend

    5th February 2026 at 11:13 pm

    I love it when people come together and share opinions, great blog, keep it up.

  108. vigorlong

    6th February 2026 at 2:19 am

    My brother recommended I might like this web site. He was totally right. This put up actually made my day. You can not believe just how much time I had spent for this information! Thanks!

  109. พิธี แต่งงาน

    6th February 2026 at 4:48 am

    Keep working ,great job!

  110. I view something really special in this internet site.

  111. you are really a good webmaster. The web site loading speed is incredible. It seems that you’re doing any unique trick. Furthermore, The contents are masterwork. you have done a fantastic job on this topic!

  112. Curso Pós-Edital Estratégia 2025

    6th February 2026 at 8:18 pm

    Hey there, I think your website might be having browser compatibility issues. When I look at your blog in Opera, it looks fine but when opening in Internet Explorer, it has some overlapping. I just wanted to give you a quick heads up! Other then that, excellent blog!

  113. Promotor de Justiça Damásio 2025

    7th February 2026 at 12:17 am

    Simply wanna remark on few general things, The website style is perfect, the subject matter is real great. “To imagine is everything, to know is nothing at all.” by Anatole France.

  114. Curso Pós-Edital Estratégia 2025

    7th February 2026 at 4:52 am

    I was very pleased to seek out this internet-site.I wanted to thanks for your time for this wonderful read!! I positively having fun with each little little bit of it and I have you bookmarked to check out new stuff you weblog post.

  115. kokitoto togel

    7th February 2026 at 5:43 pm

    I want to show my thanks to this writer just for bailing me out of such a trouble. Because of searching throughout the world-wide-web and obtaining techniques which are not helpful, I thought my entire life was well over. Being alive minus the strategies to the issues you’ve fixed all through the post is a serious case, as well as ones which may have negatively damaged my entire career if I hadn’t discovered your web site. Your own personal know-how and kindness in playing with every aspect was very useful. I don’t know what I would’ve done if I had not discovered such a thing like this. It’s possible to at this point look ahead to my future. Thanks so much for this impressive and amazing guide. I won’t hesitate to refer your blog to anyone who needs to have support on this area.

  116. rolling paper packs

    8th February 2026 at 1:55 am

    I always was interested in this topic and stock still am, appreciate it for putting up.

  117. tv box assinatura

    8th February 2026 at 4:28 pm

    What i do not understood is in truth how you’re no longer actually much more neatly-appreciated than you may be now. You’re so intelligent. You understand therefore significantly in relation to this subject, produced me in my view imagine it from numerous varied angles. Its like men and women aren’t fascinated unless it’s one thing to do with Woman gaga! Your personal stuffs outstanding. Always deal with it up!

  118. unitv planos

    8th February 2026 at 8:43 pm

    Hello! I just wanted to ask if you ever have any trouble with hackers? My last blog (wordpress) was hacked and I ended up losing a few months of hard work due to no data backup. Do you have any solutions to stop hackers?

  119. ogłoszenia

    9th February 2026 at 3:56 am

    Good info. Lucky me I reach on your website by accident, I bookmarked it.

  120. http://futbolfemeninoboliviano.com/

    9th February 2026 at 6:08 am

    You could definitely see your expertise in the work you write. The world hopes for even more passionate writers like you who aren’t afraid to say how they believe. Always follow your heart.

  121. fdertolmrtokev

    10th February 2026 at 6:48 pm

    Hello! I know this is kinda off topic nevertheless I’d figured I’d ask. Would you be interested in trading links or maybe guest writing a blog article or vice-versa? My site covers a lot of the same topics as yours and I think we could greatly benefit from each other. If you’re interested feel free to shoot me an email. I look forward to hearing from you! Awesome blog by the way!

  122. ar condicionado em guarulhos

    11th February 2026 at 1:46 am

    But wanna input that you have a very decent site, I love the design it actually stands out.

  123. homestay idukki

    11th February 2026 at 4:32 am

    You actually make it appear really easy along with your presentation but I in finding this matter to be actually something that I feel I’d never understand. It sort of feels too complicated and extremely wide for me. I’m taking a look forward in your next publish, I will attempt to get the hold of it!

  124. 갤럭시가라오케

    11th February 2026 at 9:49 am

    It’s actually a nice and useful piece of information. I am satisfied that you just shared this helpful info with us. Please keep us up to date like this. Thank you for sharing.

  125. Case sou smile

    11th February 2026 at 11:36 am

    What i do not understood is in reality how you’re now not really a lot more smartly-liked than you may be now. You’re so intelligent. You already know therefore significantly in terms of this topic, made me individually imagine it from a lot of various angles. Its like women and men aren’t interested until it is something to accomplish with Girl gaga! Your individual stuffs nice. At all times take care of it up!

  126. advogado tributarista

    11th February 2026 at 2:22 pm

    I really appreciate this post. I have been looking all over for this! Thank goodness I found it on Bing. You’ve made my day! Thank you again!

  127. gelatin trick

    11th February 2026 at 2:24 pm

    I’ll immediately seize your rss as I can not in finding your email subscription hyperlink or e-newsletter service. Do you’ve any? Kindly let me know in order that I may subscribe. Thanks.

  128. gelatin trick review

    11th February 2026 at 9:39 pm

    of course like your web-site but you need to check the spelling on quite a few of your posts. A number of them are rife with spelling problems and I to find it very bothersome to tell the reality however I will definitely come back again.

  129. igm247

    11th February 2026 at 10:18 pm

    We are a bunch of volunteers and opening a new scheme in our community. Your site offered us with helpful info to paintings on. You’ve performed an impressive job and our entire community will be grateful to you.

  130. gelatin trick recipe

    12th February 2026 at 3:12 am

    Very good blog! Do you have any hints for aspiring writers? I’m planning to start my own blog soon but I’m a little lost on everything. Would you advise starting with a free platform like WordPress or go for a paid option? There are so many options out there that I’m completely overwhelmed .. Any recommendations? Thank you!

  131. gelatin trick

    12th February 2026 at 5:31 am

    Hello there! Quick question that’s totally off topic. Do you know how to make your site mobile friendly? My site looks weird when viewing from my apple iphone. I’m trying to find a theme or plugin that might be able to correct this problem. If you have any suggestions, please share. Many thanks!

  132. psiquiatra bh

    12th February 2026 at 6:02 am

    I really like your writing style, fantastic information, regards for putting up : D.

  133. 강남가라오케

    12th February 2026 at 11:59 am

    As I website owner I think the subject matter here is real fantastic, thankyou for your efforts.

  134. campos dos goytacazes 24 horas

    12th February 2026 at 12:00 pm

    It’s laborious to search out educated folks on this subject, however you sound like you realize what you’re talking about! Thanks

  135. casimon

    12th February 2026 at 3:08 pm

    hi!,I love your writing very much! share we be in contact more about your article on AOL? I need an expert in this house to solve my problem. May be that’s you! Having a look forward to look you.

  136. 송파가라오케

    12th February 2026 at 6:26 pm

    Definitely believe that which you said. Your favorite reason seemed to be on the net the simplest thing to be aware of. I say to you, I certainly get irked while people think about worries that they plainly do not know about. You managed to hit the nail upon the top as well as defined out the whole thing without having side-effects , people can take a signal. Will likely be back to get more. Thanks

  137. Carey Louck

    12th February 2026 at 7:19 pm

    I was looking at some of your articles on this internet site and I think this site is rattling informative ! Keep on putting up.

  138. gelatin trick for weight loss

    12th February 2026 at 7:28 pm

    Nice blog! Is your theme custom made or did you download it from somewhere? A theme like yours with a few simple adjustements would really make my blog shine. Please let me know where you got your theme. Thanks

  139. boostaro review

    13th February 2026 at 12:57 am

    I genuinely enjoy reading on this web site, it has wonderful blog posts. “A short saying oft contains much wisdom.” by Sophocles.

  140. teslatoto login

    13th February 2026 at 1:56 am

    I love it when people come together and share opinions, great blog, keep it up.

  141. vegas108 login

    13th February 2026 at 3:01 am

    Great post, I conceive website owners should larn a lot from this web site its rattling user genial.

  142. atom 108

    13th February 2026 at 1:08 pm

    I will right away clutch your rss feed as I can’t to find your email subscription link or e-newsletter service. Do you’ve any? Kindly permit me recognize in order that I could subscribe. Thanks.

  143. 제주가라오케

    14th February 2026 at 12:02 pm

    I’m still learning from you, but I’m making my way to the top as well. I definitely love reading all that is written on your site.Keep the posts coming. I liked it!

  144. Curso Intensivo Delta 2025

    14th February 2026 at 5:39 pm

    You can definitely see your skills within the paintings you write. The arena hopes for more passionate writers such as you who aren’t afraid to say how they believe. At all times go after your heart.

  145. Hi there! Do you know if they make any plugins to assist with Search Engine Optimization? I’m trying to get my blog to rank for some targeted keywords but I’m not seeing very good results. If you know of any please share. Thank you!

  146. Concurso MPE GO 2025

    14th February 2026 at 10:52 pm

    I also believe hence, perfectly written post! .

  147. Curso Pós-Edital Estratégia 2025

    15th February 2026 at 2:44 am

    I want to show my appreciation to you for bailing me out of this particular setting. Because of surfing throughout the search engines and coming across proposals which are not powerful, I thought my life was well over. Being alive devoid of the solutions to the issues you’ve resolved through your good short post is a critical case, and those that would have in a wrong way affected my entire career if I hadn’t encountered the blog. Your own capability and kindness in maneuvering every aspect was crucial. I don’t know what I would have done if I hadn’t come upon such a solution like this. I can also at this time look ahead to my future. Thanks a lot so much for the reliable and results-oriented help. I won’t hesitate to endorse the sites to any individual who needs to have direction about this matter.

  148. Curso Reta Final Delta 2025

    15th February 2026 at 5:22 am

    Hello! Quick question that’s entirely off topic. Do you know how to make your site mobile friendly? My site looks weird when browsing from my iphone 4. I’m trying to find a theme or plugin that might be able to resolve this issue. If you have any suggestions, please share. With thanks!

  149. Delegado Civil e Federal CEISC

    15th February 2026 at 8:15 am

    There are some attention-grabbing cut-off dates on this article however I don’t know if I see all of them middle to heart. There’s some validity but I will take hold opinion till I look into it further. Good article , thanks and we wish extra! Added to FeedBurner as well

  150. slot mahjong

    16th February 2026 at 12:52 am

    Hi, just required you to know I he added your site to my Google bookmarks due to your layout. But seriously, I believe your internet site has 1 in the freshest theme I??ve came across. It extremely helps make reading your blog significantly easier.

  151. slot depo 5k

    17th February 2026 at 4:06 am

    Glad to be one of the visitants on this awing web site : D.

  152. tlover tonet

    19th February 2026 at 4:51 am

    Can I simply say what a relief to find someone who actually is aware of what theyre speaking about on the internet. You undoubtedly know the best way to bring a problem to gentle and make it important. More individuals need to learn this and perceive this side of the story. I cant believe youre no more common since you definitely have the gift.

  153. gelatin trick recipe

    19th February 2026 at 9:23 am

    The next time I read a blog, I hope that it doesnt disappoint me as much as this one. I mean, I know it was my choice to read, but I actually thought youd have something interesting to say. All I hear is a bunch of whining about something that you could fix if you werent too busy looking for attention.

  154. bariatric gelatin recipe

    19th February 2026 at 1:39 pm

    Very clear internet site, appreciate it for this post.

  155. slot online resmi

    19th February 2026 at 11:13 pm

    Thanks a lot for providing individuals with an exceptionally splendid opportunity to read from this web site. It can be very lovely plus full of amusement for me and my office friends to search your web site at least thrice weekly to study the newest stuff you have got. Of course, I’m also always fulfilled with all the incredible knowledge you serve. Selected 4 tips in this posting are undoubtedly the most efficient we’ve had.

  156. top up royal dream

    20th February 2026 at 8:36 am

    An fascinating dialogue is price comment. I think that it’s best to write extra on this matter, it won’t be a taboo topic but typically individuals are not enough to talk on such topics. To the next. Cheers

  157. gelatin trick recipe

    20th February 2026 at 5:13 pm

    Lovely just what I was looking for.Thanks to the author for taking his time on this one.

  158. I appreciate, cause I found exactly what I was looking for. You have ended my 4 day long hunt! God Bless you man. Have a nice day. Bye

  159. pink gelatin trick

    23rd February 2026 at 2:56 am

    Outstanding post, I think people should larn a lot from this website its very user pleasant.

  160. Empresa de caça vazamento

    23rd February 2026 at 7:57 pm

    hi!,I like your writing very much! proportion we communicate more approximately your article on AOL? I require a specialist in this space to resolve my problem. Maybe that’s you! Looking ahead to peer you.

  161. gelatin trick

    24th February 2026 at 1:17 am

    After study a few of the blog posts on your website now, and I truly like your way of blogging. I bookmarked it to my bookmark website list and will be checking back soon. Pls check out my web site as well and let me know what you think.

  162. Home and contents insurance comparison

    24th February 2026 at 3:03 am

    Enjoyed studying this, very good stuff, appreciate it. “All of our dreams can come true — if we have the courage to pursue them.” by Walt Disney.

  163. seltoto login

    24th February 2026 at 3:12 am

    I like the efforts you have put in this, appreciate it for all the great content.

  164. تزويد مشاهدات شورتس

    25th February 2026 at 3:56 am

    Appreciate it for this marvellous post, I am glad I discovered this internet site on yahoo.

  165. betspin138 login

    26th February 2026 at 3:07 am

    My spouse and i got so peaceful when Raymond could do his reports out of the precious recommendations he had from your very own blog. It is now and again perplexing just to always be making a gift of guidelines that some people could have been selling. And now we fully grasp we’ve got the writer to give thanks to for that. The main explanations you made, the straightforward website navigation, the friendships your site help engender – it’s mostly incredible, and it’s really leading our son in addition to our family imagine that the topic is enjoyable, which is certainly quite mandatory. Thanks for the whole lot!

  166. servicio tecnico canon

    26th February 2026 at 10:13 am

    certainly like your web site but you have to check the spelling on several of your posts. A number of them are rife with spelling issues and I find it very troublesome to tell the truth nevertheless I’ll surely come back again.

  167. alquiler de motos en sevilla

    26th February 2026 at 12:34 pm

    Would you be occupied with exchanging hyperlinks?

  168. slot

    26th February 2026 at 2:41 pm

    I just could not depart your site before suggesting that I really enjoyed the standard information a person provide for your visitors? Is going to be back often to check up on new posts

  169. open a binance account

    26th February 2026 at 2:52 pm

    Can you be more specific about the content of your article? After reading it, I still have some doubts. Hope you can help me. https://accounts.binance.com/si-LK/register?ref=LBF8F65G

  170. ayuda PFG arquitectura

    26th February 2026 at 9:46 pm

    What i don’t understood is if truth be told how you’re no longer actually much more neatly-favored than you might be now. You are very intelligent. You already know thus considerably in the case of this topic, produced me in my opinion imagine it from so many varied angles. Its like men and women aren’t involved except it’s something to do with Woman gaga! Your personal stuffs nice. Always deal with it up!

  171. ayuda PFG arquitectura

    27th February 2026 at 1:58 am

    You can definitely see your enthusiasm in the work you write. The world hopes for even more passionate writers like you who are not afraid to say how they believe. Always follow your heart.

  172. boostaro

    27th February 2026 at 9:31 am

    Wow, awesome weblog structure! How long have you ever been running a blog for? you make running a blog look easy. The full look of your web site is excellent, as well as the content!

  173. situs slot

    27th February 2026 at 11:00 am

    Simply want to say your article is as astonishing. The clarity in your post is just nice and i could assume you are an expert on this subject. Well with your permission allow me to grab your feed to keep updated with forthcoming post. Thanks a million and please keep up the enjoyable work.

  174. ghdrol

    27th February 2026 at 11:46 am

    I saw a lot of website but I think this one has got something extra in it in it

  175. bandar slot

    27th February 2026 at 12:08 pm

    This is very interesting, You’re a very skilled blogger. I have joined your feed and look forward to seeking more of your fantastic post. Also, I’ve shared your site in my social networks!

  176. pink gelatin trick

    27th February 2026 at 3:51 pm

    Hmm is anyone else having problems with the pictures on this blog loading? I’m trying to find out if its a problem on my end or if it’s the blog. Any responses would be greatly appreciated.

  177. outdoor patio sound systems austin

    27th February 2026 at 5:33 pm

    What’s Happening i’m new to this, I stumbled upon this I’ve found It positively useful and it has helped me out loads. I hope to contribute & help other users like its aided me. Good job.

  178. Frosted Brands

    27th February 2026 at 9:31 pm

    I am impressed with this site, very I am a fan.

  179. fren88

    27th February 2026 at 9:52 pm

    You have brought up a very fantastic points, appreciate it for the post.

  180. diamond painting stift

    28th February 2026 at 2:33 am

    Hi there, just became aware of your blog through Google, and found that it is truly informative. I am gonna watch out for brussels. I will be grateful if you continue this in future. Lots of people will be benefited from your writing. Cheers!

  181. orange peel trick

    28th February 2026 at 4:08 am

    I genuinely enjoy looking through on this website, it has good content. “A short saying oft contains much wisdom.” by Sophocles.

  182. jasa anti rayap bandung

    28th February 2026 at 7:17 am

    I really like your writing style, excellent information, appreciate it for putting up :D. “All words are pegs to hang ideas on.” by Henry Ward Beecher.

  183. slot deposit 5000

    28th February 2026 at 12:59 pm

    Some times its a pain in the ass to read what blog owners wrote but this internet site is very user genial! .

  184. streamate live chat

    28th February 2026 at 3:45 pm

    But wanna input on few general things, The website style is perfect, the articles is very fantastic. “To establish oneself in the world, one has to do all one can to appear established.” by Francois de La Rochefoucauld.

  185. streamate paradiskiss

    1st March 2026 at 1:18 am

    Very nice post. I just stumbled upon your blog and wanted to say that I have truly enjoyed browsing your blog posts. After all I’ll be subscribing to your rss feed and I hope you write again soon!

  186. 7swin

    2nd March 2026 at 9:14 am

    As a Newbie, I am permanently searching online for articles that can benefit me. Thank you

  187. bariatric gelatin recipe

    3rd March 2026 at 4:10 pm

    I am incessantly thought about this, regards for putting up.

  188. online infidelity investigation

    3rd March 2026 at 6:44 pm

    I’d forever want to be update on new posts on this website , bookmarked! .

  189. prodentim

    4th March 2026 at 11:40 am

    Hello! Do you know if they make any plugins to assist with Search Engine Optimization? I’m trying to get my blog to rank for some targeted keywords but I’m not seeing very good success. If you know of any please share. Kudos!

  190. pink salt trick recipe

    4th March 2026 at 2:03 pm

    Great post, I conceive blog owners should learn a lot from this site its real user friendly.

  191. dubai wealth secret

    4th March 2026 at 4:57 pm

    Thanks for any other fantastic article. Where else could anybody get that type of info in such an ideal manner of writing? I’ve a presentation next week, and I’m on the search for such info.

  192. audifort

    5th March 2026 at 12:17 am

    Greetings! This is my first visit to your blog! We are a group of volunteers and starting a new initiative in a community in the same niche. Your blog provided us useful information to work on. You have done a outstanding job!

  193. pink salt trick for weight loss

    5th March 2026 at 10:13 am

    You are my intake, I possess few web logs and often run out from to post .

  194. prodentim oral supplement

    5th March 2026 at 5:40 pm

    Excellent post. I was checking constantly this blog and I am impressed! Very useful info specially the last part 🙂 I care for such information much. I was looking for this certain information for a long time. Thank you and good luck.

  195. Die casting

    6th March 2026 at 2:17 pm

    Wonderful beat ! I would like to apprentice while you amend your site, how could i subscribe for a blog website? The account helped me a acceptable deal. I had been tiny bit acquainted of this your broadcast provided bright clear concept

  196. PE Blow molding machine

    6th March 2026 at 5:19 pm

    Thank you for the sensible critique. Me and my neighbor were just preparing to do some research about this. We got a grab a book from our area library but I think I learned more clear from this post. I’m very glad to see such fantastic info being shared freely out there.

  197. clogs 46

    6th March 2026 at 6:58 pm

    I precisely needed to thank you so much once again. I do not know the things that I could possibly have handled in the absence of the opinions shared by you on such a area of interest. It has been a scary scenario for me personally, however , spending time with the very specialised approach you resolved that took me to cry with happiness. I’m just grateful for the guidance as well as pray you are aware of an amazing job you are getting into training some other people via a blog. I am sure you haven’t encountered any of us.

  198. hokibos898

    7th March 2026 at 12:24 am

    Great post, I think blog owners should learn a lot from this weblog its very user friendly.

  199. curso area ambiental estadual

    7th March 2026 at 10:39 am

    Do you mind if I quote a few of your articles as long as I provide credit and sources back to your weblog? My blog is in the very same area of interest as yours and my users would certainly benefit from a lot of the information you provide here. Please let me know if this alright with you. Thank you!

  200. curso ifce assistente alunos

    7th March 2026 at 5:14 pm

    I’ve read a few just right stuff here. Definitely worth bookmarking for revisiting. I wonder how so much effort you put to make this kind of great informative website.

  201. pool abdeckplane komplettset

    8th March 2026 at 12:06 am

    The very root of your writing whilst sounding reasonable at first, did not really sit perfectly with me after some time. Someplace within the paragraphs you actually were able to make me a believer but only for a very short while. I nevertheless have a problem with your jumps in assumptions and one might do well to fill in those breaks. In the event you can accomplish that, I will definitely end up being fascinated.

  202. dominobet

    8th March 2026 at 2:26 am

    Hi there very cool blog!! Guy .. Beautiful .. Wonderful .. I’ll bookmark your web site and take the feeds additionally…I’m glad to seek out a lot of helpful information right here in the publish, we’d like work out extra strategies in this regard, thank you for sharing. . . . . .

  203. gelatin trick

    8th March 2026 at 8:38 pm

    I love it when people come together and share opinions, great blog, keep it up.

  204. gelatin trick recipe

    9th March 2026 at 12:38 am

    A lot of of whatever you state happens to be astonishingly accurate and that makes me ponder the reason why I had not looked at this in this light previously. Your article truly did switch the light on for me personally as far as this specific subject goes. Nevertheless there is actually 1 point I am not too comfortable with and whilst I attempt to reconcile that with the actual central idea of your position, allow me see exactly what all the rest of the subscribers have to point out.Nicely done.

  205. gelatin trick

    9th March 2026 at 3:38 am

    Hey! Would you mind if I share your blog with my myspace group? There’s a lot of people that I think would really appreciate your content. Please let me know. Thanks

  206. gelatin trick for weight loss

    9th March 2026 at 5:05 am

    I regard something really special in this internet site.

  207. neurodyne reviews

    9th March 2026 at 2:31 pm

    Thank you for the sensible critique. Me & my neighbor were just preparing to do a little research about this. We got a grab a book from our area library but I think I learned more from this post. I am very glad to see such magnificent information being shared freely out there.

  208. fitspresso

    9th March 2026 at 4:02 pm

    I went over this internet site and I think you have a lot of fantastic information, saved to my bookmarks (:.

  209. citrus burn review

    9th March 2026 at 11:08 pm

    After I originally commented I clicked the -Notify me when new comments are added- checkbox and now each time a comment is added I get four emails with the same comment. Is there any way you can take away me from that service? Thanks!

  210. kera77

    10th March 2026 at 7:15 am

    Way cool, some valid points! I appreciate you making this article available, the rest of the site is also high quality. Have a fun.

  211. spartamax reveiews

    10th March 2026 at 7:51 am

    Some really tremendous work on behalf of the owner of this website , perfectly outstanding content material.

  212. derila ergo

    10th March 2026 at 9:42 am

    This really answered my problem, thank you!

  213. Demi Fine Jewellery

    10th March 2026 at 11:47 am

    I adore assembling utile info, this post has got me even more info! .

  214. suster 123

    10th March 2026 at 4:49 pm

    You can definitely see your enthusiasm within the paintings you write. The sector hopes for even more passionate writers like you who are not afraid to mention how they believe. All the time follow your heart.

  215. situs pria4d

    10th March 2026 at 9:36 pm

    Enjoyed reading this, very good stuff, thankyou.

  216. ayuda TFG arquitectura

    11th March 2026 at 7:29 am

    Almost all of whatever you assert happens to be astonishingly accurate and it makes me wonder the reason why I had not looked at this with this light before. This piece really did switch the light on for me as far as this particular subject goes. However at this time there is one factor I am not too comfortable with and while I attempt to reconcile that with the actual main theme of your issue, permit me see exactly what the rest of the readers have to say.Very well done.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

International Rugby

Springboks v All Blacks: Rugby’s Greatest Rivalry

The Springboks and All Blacks have played 110 Tests and produced the fiercest contest in rugby. Here is the full head-to-head record, rivalry history, biggest wins and why it remains rugby’s greatest rivalry.

Published

on

By

The Springboks and All Blacks have played 110 Tests and produced the fiercest contest in rugby. Here is the full Springboks vs All Blacks record, rivalry history and why it remains rugby’s greatest rivalry.

H1
Springboks vs All Blacks record: the full story behind rugby’s greatest rivalry

H2s

  • What is the Springboks vs All Blacks record?

  • The biggest Springbok win over the All Blacks

  • The biggest All Blacks win over the Springboks

  • Why this is rugby’s greatest rivalry

  • The latest chapter in the rivalry

  • Springboks vs All Blacks: the verdict

There is no bigger fixture in rugby than the Springboks against the All Blacks.

LATEST NEWS ON RUGBY’S GREATEST RIVALRY

This is the one.

It is rugby’s most loaded rivalry, the one with the deepest history, the greatest tension, and the strongest claim to excellence. Between them, South Africa and New Zealand have set the standard for what Test rugby should look like: hard, clever, physical, unrelenting. They don’t just play for points. They play for hierarchy.

As of the end of the 2025 Rugby Championship meetings, the teams had met 110 times in Test rugby. The All Blacks lead the all-time series with 63 wins, the Springboks have 43, and there have been 4 draws.

That number matters, but it only tells part of the story.

Every era has had its own version of South Africa versus New Zealand. The early tours gave it its edge, but the apartheid years also gave it political charge. Professionalism gave it speed and scale, and the rivalry, in the Rassie Erasmus era, is at its most intense.

ALL BLACKS COACH DAVE RENNIE IS A RED FLAG FOR RASSIE’S BOKS

What is the Springboks vs All Blacks record?

The raw record is straightforward enough.

The Springboks and All Blacks have played 110 Tests. New Zealand have won 63, South Africa 43, with 4 draws. That makes New Zealand the only major nation with a positive all-time record against South Africa, which is why every Springbok win over the All Blacks carries outsized value.

The recent trend, however, tells a sharper story.

South Africa beat New Zealand twice in 2024 31-27 at Ellis Park and 18-12 in Cape Town to reclaim the Freedom Cup. In 2025, the All Blacks won 24-17 at Eden Park, but the Springboks answered a week later with a seismic 43-10 win in Wellington, a result SA Rugby described as the biggest defeat ever inflicted on the All Blacks.

So while New Zealand still lead the century-long rivalry overall, the modern contest is tighter, nastier and far less predictable than the old numbers suggest.

The biggest Springbok win over the All Blacks

South Africa’s biggest win, 35-7 at Twickenham a month before the 2023 World Cup, was the Boks benchmark 100-plus years in the making, but within two years that record was broken.

The new high-water mark came in Wellington on 13 September 2025, when the Springboks demolished the All Blacks 43-10. SA Rugby explicitly called it the All Blacks’ biggest defeat ever, and noted that it surpassed the 35-7 margin from London in 2023.

That matters historically and psychologically.

South Africa have always believed they can beat New Zealand. But there is a difference between belief and force. The 43-10 result was force. It was a reminder that when the Springboks got their collision game, bench impact and tactical pressure exactly right, they could break even the All Blacks in New Zealand.

The biggest All Blacks win over the Springboks

New Zealand’s biggest win in the rivalry remains the brutal 57-0 victory in 2017, still South Africa’s heaviest defeat in Test history. SA Rugby itself referred to it in retrospect as a record defeat by New Zealand.

That result remains one of the rivalry’s most important reference points because it sits at the opposite end of the emotional scale from the Springboks’ recent resurgence. It was humiliation then. The modern Bok revival has been built, in part, on making sure that kind of capitulation never happens again.

Why this is rugby’s greatest rivalry

The phrase is not marketing fluff.

South Africa and New Zealand have been the sport’s two most imposing rugby nations across generations. They have the tradition, the depth, the public pressure, the tactical intelligence and the expectation. More than that, each has usually been measured most accurately by how it performs against the other.

SA Rugby itself now brands the fixture as Rugby’s Greatest Rivalry, and the 2026 tour has been designed around that idea, with four Tests scheduled between the Springboks and All Blacks, including a Test in Baltimore, USA. That commercial packaging works because it is built on a truth rugby people already understand: no fixture carries more historical weight.

There are bigger sporting events globally, but in rugby, nothing feels more final than Springboks versus All Blacks.

The latest chapter in the rivalry

The latest sequence of matches has added another layer to the story.

In 2024, South Africa beat New Zealand twice in one Rugby Championship campaign, first at Ellis Park and then in Cape Town. The second win secured the Freedom Cup and kept the Springboks unbeaten in that championship stretch.

In 2025, the All Blacks protected Eden Park with a 24-17 win in Auckland, before South Africa hit back with the 43-10statement in Wellington. The official Springbok record published before the Auckland match was 108 played, 42 won, 62 lost, 4 drawn; after Auckland it became 109 played, 42 won, 63 lost, 4 drawn; and after Wellington the all-time tally moved to 110 played, 43 won, 63 lost, 4 drawn.

Springboks vs All Blacks: the verdict

The All Blacks still lead the rivalry on total wins.

But the modern Springboks have changed the feel of the contest. They have beaten New Zealand in World Cup finals, beaten them back-to-back in South Africa, and in 2025 handed them the heaviest defeat in their history in their own country.

That is why the Springboks versus All Blacks fixture remains unmatched. It is not just the best rivalry because of the past. It is the best rivalry because the next chapter still matters.

And in this rivalry, more than any other in rugby, history is never finished.

Rugby’s Greatest Rivalry tour fixtures 2026

Friday 7 August: DHL Stormers v All Blacks at DHL Stadium, Cape Town

Tuesday 11 August: Hollywoodbets Sharks v All Blacks at Hollywoodbets Kings Park, Durban

Saturday 15 August: Vodacom Bulls v All Blacks at Loftus Versfeld, Pretoria

Saturday 22 August: First Test – Springboks v All Blacks at Ellis Park, Johannesburg

Tuesday 25 August: Lions v New Zealand at Ellis Park, Johannesburg

Saturday 29 August: Second Test – Springboks v New Zealand at DHL Stadium, Cape Town

Saturday 5 September: Third Test – Springboks v New Zealand at FNB Stadium, Johannesburg Saturday 12 September:

Saturday 12th September: Fourth Test – Springboks v New Zealand in Baltimore, Maryland

Date Status Team Score Team Score Venue
13/08/21  Test South Africa 5 New Zealand 13 Dunedin
27/08/21  Test South Africa 9 New Zealand 5 Auckland
17/09/21   Test South Africa 0 New Zealand 0 Wellington
30/06/28   Test South Africa 17 New Zealand 0 Durban
21/07/28   Test South Africa 6 New Zealand 7 Johannesburg
18/08/28   Test South Africa 11 New Zealand 6 Port Elizabeth
01/09/28   Test South Africa 5 New Zealand 13 Newlands
14/08/37   Test South Africa 7 New Zealand 13 Wellington
04/09/37   Test South Africa 13 New Zealand 6 Christchurch
25/09/37   Test South Africa 17 New Zealand 6 Auckland
16/07/49   Test South Africa 15 New Zealand 11 Newlands
13/08/49   Test South Africa 12 New Zealand 6 Johannesburg
03/09/49   Test South Africa 9 New Zealand 3 Durban
17/09/49   Test South Africa 11 New Zealand 8 Port Elizabeth
14/07/56   Test South Africa 6 New Zealand 10 Dunedin
04/08/56   Test South Africa 8 New Zealand 3 Wellington
18/08/56   Test South Africa 10 New Zealand 17 Christchurch
01/09/56   Test South Africa 5 New Zealand 11 Auckland
25/06/60   Test South Africa 13 New Zealand 0 Johannesburg
23/07/60   Test South Africa 3 New Zealand 11 Newlands
13/08/60   Test South Africa 11 New Zealand 11 Bloemfontein
27/08/60   Test South Africa 8 New Zealand 3 Port Elizabeth
31/07/65   Test South Africa 3 New Zealand 6 Wellington
21/08/65   Test South Africa 0 New Zealand 13 Dunedin
04/09/65   Test South Africa 19 New Zealand 16 Christchurch
18/09/65   Test South Africa 3 New Zealand 20 Auckland
25/07/70   Test South Africa 17 New Zealand 6 Pretoria
08/08/70   Test South Africa 8 New Zealand 9 Newlands
29/08/70   Test South Africa 14 New Zealand 3 Port Elizabeth
12/09/70   Test South Africa 20 New Zealand 17 Johannesburg
24/07/76   Test South Africa 16 New Zealand 7 Durban
14/08/76   Test South Africa 9 New Zealand 15 Bloemfontein
04/09/76   Test South Africa 15 New Zealand 10 Newlands
18/09/76   Test South Africa 15 New Zealand 14 Johannesburg
15/08/81   Test South Africa 9 New Zealand 14 Christchurch
29/08/81   Test South Africa 24 New Zealand 12 Wellington
12/09/81   Test South Africa 22 New Zealand 25 Auckland
15/08/92   Test South Africa 24 New Zealand 27 Johannesburg
09/07/94   Test South Africa 14 New Zealand 22 Dunedin
23/07/94   Test South Africa 9 New Zealand 13 Wellington
06/08/94   Test South Africa 18 New Zealand 18 Auckland
24/06/95 RWC South Africa 15 New Zealand 12 Johannesburg
20/07/96   Test South Africa 11 New Zealand 15 Christchurch
10/08/96   Test South Africa 18 New Zealand 29 Cape Town
17/08/96   Test South Africa 19 New Zealand 23 Durban
24/08/96   Test South Africa 26 New Zealand 33 Pretoria
31/08/96   Test South Africa 32 New Zealand 22 Johannesburg
19/07/97   Test South Africa 32 New Zealand 35 Johannesburg
09/08/97   Test South Africa 35 New Zealand 55 Auckland
25/07/98   Test South Africa 13 New Zealand 3 Wellington
15/08/98   Test South Africa 24 New Zealand 23 Durban
10/07/99   Test South Africa 0 New Zealand 28 Dunedin
07/08/99   Test South Africa 18 New Zealand 34 Pretoria
04/11/99  RWC South Africa 22 New Zealand 18 Cardiff
22/07/00   Test South Africa 12 New Zealand 25 Christchurch
19/08/00   Test South Africa 46 New Zealand 40 Johannesburg
21/07/01   Test South Africa 3 New Zealand 12 Cape Town
25/08/01   Test South Africa 15 New Zealand 26 Auckland
20/07/02   Test South Africa 20 New Zealand 41 Wellington
10/08/02   Test South Africa 23 New Zealand 30 Durban
19/07/03   Test South Africa 16 New Zealand 52 Pretoria
09/08/03   Test South Africa 11 New Zealand 19 Dunedin
08/11/03 RWC South Africa 9 New Zealand 29 Melbourne
24/07/04   Test South Africa 21 New Zealand 23 Christchurch
14/08/04   Test South Africa 40 New Zealand 26 Johannesburg
06/08/05   Test South Africa 22 New Zealand 16 Cape Town
27/08/05   Test South Africa 27 New Zealand 31 Dunedin
22/07/06   Test South Africa 17 New Zealand 35 Wellington
26/08/06   Test South Africa 26 New Zealand 45 Pretoria
02/09/06   Test South Africa 21 New Zealand 20 Rustenburg
23/06/07   Test South Africa 21 New Zealand 26 Durban
14/07/07   Test South Africa 6 New Zealand 33 Christchurch
05/07/08   Test South Africa 8 New Zealand 19 Wellington
12/07/08   Test South Africa 30 New Zealand 28 Dunedin
16/08/08   Test South Africa 0 New Zealand 19 Newlands
25/07/09   Test South Africa 28 New Zealand 19 Bloemfontein
01/08/09   Test South Africa 31 New Zealand 19 Durban
12/09/09   Test South Africa 32 New Zealand 29 Hamilton
10/07/10   Test South Africa 12 New Zealand 32 Auckland
17/07/10   Test South Africa 17 New Zealand 31 Wellington
21/08/10   Test South Africa 22 New Zealand 29 Soweto
30/07/11   Test South Africa 7 New Zealand 40 Wellington
20/09/11   Test South Africa 18 New Zealand 5 Port Elizabeth
15/09/12   Test South Africa 11 New Zealand 21 Dunedin
06/10/12   Test South Africa 16 New Zealand 32 Johannesburg
14/09/13   Test South Africa 15 New Zealand 29 Auckland
05/10/13   Test South Africa 27 New Zealand 38 Johannesburg
13/09/14   Test South Africa 10 New Zealand 14 Wellington
04/10/14   Test South Africa 27 New Zealand 25 Johannesburg
25/07/15   Test South Africa 20 New Zealand 27 Johannesburg
24/10/15   Test South Africa 18 New Zealand 20 London
17/09/16   Test South Africa 13 New Zealand 41 Christchurch
08/10/16   Test South Africa 15 New Zealand 57 Durban
16/09/17   Test South Africa 0 New Zealand 57 Albany
07/10/17   Test South Africa 24 New Zealand 25 Cape Town
15/09/18   Test South Africa 36 New Zealand 34 Wellington
6/10/18   Test South Africa 30 New Zealand 32 Pretoria
27/07/19   Test South Africa 16 New Zealand 16 Wellington
21/09/19 RWC South Africa 13 New Zealand 23 Japan
25/09/21   Test South Africa 17 New Zealand 19 Queensland
2/10/21   Test South Africa 31 New Zealand 29 Queensland
6/08/22   Test South Africa 26 New Zealand 10 Mbombela
13/8/22   Test South Africa 23 New Zealand 35 Johannesburg
15/7/23  Test South Africa 20 New Zealand 35 Auckland
25/8/23  Test South Africa 35 New Zealand 7 London
28/10/23 RWC South Africa 12 New Zealand 11 Paris
31/8/24 Test South Africa 31 New Zealand 27 Johannesburg
7/9/24 Test South Africa 18 New Zealand 12 Cape Town
6/9/2025 Test South Africa 17 New Zealand 24 Duneden
13/9/2025 Test South Africa 43 New Zealand 10 Wellington
Total Points: 1785 2225
Games Played South Africa New Zealand Drawn
Played Won Won Drawn
Overall Record 110 43 63 4
At South African Venues 54 28 25 1
At New Zealand Venues 47 10 33 3
 RWC 8 4  4 0
Top Points Scorers
Name Country Points Tries Conversions Penalties Drop Goals
Dan Carter NZ 221 3 25 51 1
Andrew Mehrtens NZ 209 0 19 53 4
Beauden Barrett NZ 174 4 23 36 0
Handre Pollard SA 109 2 18 19 2
Percy Montgomery SA 103 1 16 19 3
Carlos Spencer NZ 84 3 12 15 0
Morne Steyn SA 71 1 3 19 1
Joel Stransky SA 54 0 3 14 2
Christian Cullen NZ 50 10 0 0 0
Naas Botha SA 44 0 7 9 1
Andre Pretorius SA 41 1 6 6 2
Joe Rokococo NZ 45 9 0 0 0
Braam van Straaten SA 40 0 5 10 0
Bryan Habana SA 40 8 0 0 0

*STATS AS PER SARUGBYSTATS

RUGBY’S GREATEST RIVALRY – IT DOES NOT GET BIGGER THAN SPRINGBOKS v ALL BLACKS

ALL BLACKS 10 SPRINGBOKS 43

ALL BLACKS 57 SPRINGBOKS 0

FAQ

What is the Springboks vs All Blacks record?
The All Blacks lead the all-time Test rivalry 63 wins to 43, with 4 draws after 110 matches.

What is the Springboks’ biggest win over the All Blacks?
South Africa’s biggest win over New Zealand is the 43-10 victory in Wellington on 13 September 2025.

What is the All Blacks’ biggest win over the Springboks?
New Zealand’s biggest win over South Africa is 57-0 in 2017.

Why is Springboks vs All Blacks called rugby’s greatest rivalry?
Because it combines more than a century of Test history, elite winning standards, repeated title-deciding matches and consistent relevance at the top of world rugby. SA Rugby now officially uses the term “Rugby’s Greatest Rivalry” for the fixture. The two nations have combined for seven World Cup titles.

Continue Reading

International Rugby

France: Rugby’s Most Seductive Illusion

Published

on

By

France are rugby’s great illusion: Celebrated as royalty at home, but on the road they have too often travelled as peasants, as witnessed with the Murrayfield massacre in Scotland scoring 50 points.

The Six Nations match ended 50-40 to Scotland, but don’t be fooled. The story is Scotland scoring 40 unanswered points in the 20 minutes before half time and the 20 after the break.

Charitable tries to France in the final five minutes was never going to change the result, and it should not change the reflection of the match.

Rugby has always been seduced by France. The jerseys, the flair, the romance, the idea that somewhere inside the chaos lies genius. But the professional record, since 1996, tells a colder story.

Four wins from 40 Tests in New Zealand, Australia and South Africa.
No World Cup gold in 8 tournaments over 30 years
No southern hemisphere series victories.
Nine European titles in three decades.

I am among those always seduced by the folklore of the French, by the celebrated one-off World Cup wins against the All Blacks at Twickenham in the 1999 RWC semi-final and the 20-18 win against the All Blacks at the 2007 RWC quarter-final in Cardiff.

What followed was France losing the next match, one in a final and one in a semi-final.

France, when they hosted the 2007 World Cup, lost the opening match to Argentina and they lost the play-off for third and fourth place to Argentina.

France, in hosting the 2023 World Cup, lost to the defending champion Springboks in the quarter-final.

No Test rugby nation has ever enjoyed such continued hype and delivered such consistent failures.

Tests in the southern hemisphere against the Big Three:

  • Played: 40

  • Won: 4

  • Lost: 35

  • Drawn: 1
  • Win rate: 10%

The Breakdown:

  • New Zealand in New Zealand: 1 win from 18 Tests

  • Australia in Australia: 1 wins from 14 Tests

  • South Africa in South Africa: 2 wins from 8 Tests

France have not won a Test series in New Zealand, Australia or South Africa since the game turned professional in 1996.

At home against the same three nations:

  • Played: 40 Tests

  • Won: 17

  • Lost: 22

  • Drawn: 1

The All Blacks between 2004 and 2017 won seven times in succession in France.

  • 27 Nov 2004, Stade de France New Zealand 45-6 France

  • 11 Nov 2006, Stade de Gerland New Zealand 47-3 France

  • 18 Nov 2006, Stade de France New Zealand 23-11 France

  • 28 Nov 2009, Stade Vélodrome New Zealand 39-12 France

  • 9 Nov 2013, Stade de France New Zealand 26-19 France

  • 26 Nov 2016, Stade de France New Zealand 24-19 France

  • 11 Nov 2017, Stade de France New Zealand 38-18 France

The Springboks, between 2013 and 2025, have won five from six

  • 23 Nov 2013, Stade de France South Africa 19-10 France

  • 18 Nov 2017, Stade de France South Africa 18-17 France

  • 10 Nov 2018, Stade de France South Africa 29-26 France

  • 12 Nov 2022, Stade Vélodrome France 30-26 South Africa

  • 15 Oct 2023, Stade de France South Africa 29-28 France

  • 8 Nov 2025, Stade de France South Africa 32-17 France

Even in Paris, Marseille, Lyon and Toulouse, France lose more than they win against the southern hemisphere trio of South Africa, New Zealand and Australia.

Six Nations / Five Nations (1996–2025):

  • Tournaments: 30

  • Titles: 9

  • Runner-up: 7

  • Third: 4

  • Fourth: 7

  • Fifth: 2

France, under Fabien Galthié, between 2020 and 2025, have finished second, second, first, second, second and first in the Six Nations. They should add a 10th Six Nations title (in 31 attempts) this weekend when they play England in Paris.

But even that renaissance came with its defining moment on home soil in the 2023 World Cup quarter-final in Paris, when France lost to the Springboks in the quarter-final in Paris.

The margin was just that one point, but one point was as powerful at 20 on the night.

The Boks, defending the World Cup title, won the tournament in beating England in the semi-final and New Zealand in the final, each play-off win being with a point.

France felt they had been a dirty but one year later, hyped again, they fell once more to the Springboks, who won 32-17 in Paris, despite playing 14-15 for 30 of the 80 minutes.

The Boks, in their last 11 matches against France, six in France and five in South Africa, have won five in France and five in South Africa. They have lost one, 30-26 in Marseilles in 2022.

Saturday’s visit to Murrayfield was significant in the assessment of a French team that had been dominant against Ireland in Paris, Wales in Cardiff and Italy in Lille.

Scotland, at Murrayfield, would be as good a measure as any to the mental resolve of a French squad that must travel further than the flight to Edinburgh when challenging for the 2027 World Cup in Australia.

Scotland, at Murrayfield, was a reinforcement of the fragility of the French player psyche when not playing at home.

The defeat, given the hype around France, shocked many, but the manner in which they fell apart was consistent with the past 30 years of professionalism.

FRENCH MEDIA REACTION TO MURRAYFIELD MAYHEM

The World Cup myth

France’s World Cup record since professionalism:

World Cup Result
1999 Finalists
2003 Semi-final
2007 Semi-final
2011 Finalists
2015 Quarter-final
2019 Quarter-final
2023 Quarter-final
2027 TBD

World Cups since 1996: 8
Titles: 0

France, on those big rugby days when expectation leads them into battle, are not the aristocrats rugby imagines them to be.

They are the sport’s most celebrated illusion, so magnificent in the telling, but far less imposing in the reckoning.

SIX NATIONS LATEST: EVERY PLAYER AND TEAM STATISTIC

Continue Reading

KEO News Wire

Dave Rennie is a red flag for Rassie and his world champion Boks

Published

on

By

Dave Rennie, the new All Blacks coach, is a red flag for Rassie & his world champions Boks. Here is why as the Boks prepare for Rugby’s Greatest Rivalry four-Test series against the All Blacks, three in South Africa and the final Test in Baltimore, USA.

Rennie’s record against the Springboks, when coach of the Wallabies between 2020 and 2022, is a powerful statement.

Rennie’s Wallabies beat the Springboks three times in four Tests

Against the Springboks coached by Rassie Erasmus and Jacques Nienaber, Rennie’s Australia team went:

  • 3 wins

  • 1 loss

Victories came in:

  • Gold Coast (2021)

  • Brisbane (2021)

  • Adelaide (2022)

The Boks won 24-8 in Sydney a week after the Adelaide defeat. It marked Canan Moodie’s Test debut as a 19 year-old.

Even more powerful is Rennie’s record, as Chiefs coach between 2012 and 2017, against South African Super Rugby Teams.

Rennie’s tenure at the Chiefs (2012-2017):

Chiefs vs South African franchises

  • Played: 24

  • Wins: 18

  • Draws: 2

  • Losses: 4

Rennie’s Chiefs vs South African teams (2012–2017)

2012

  1. Cheetahs 11 – 29 Chiefs
    Free State Stadium, Bloemfontein

  2. Sharks 18 – 28 Chiefs
    Kings Park, Durban

  3. Chiefs 34 – 18 Lions
    Waikato Stadium, Hamilton

  4. Chiefs 28 – 19 Bulls
    Waikato Stadium, Hamilton

  5. Chiefs 37 – 6 Sharks (Final)
    Waikato Stadium, Hamilton

Record: 5 wins, 0 losses


2013

  1. Chiefs 34 – 20 Cheetahs
    Waikato Stadium, Hamilton

  2. Stormers 36 – 34 Chiefs
    Newlands, Cape Town

  3. Chiefs 56 – 29 Kings
    Waikato Stadium, Hamilton

  4. Chiefs 34 – 22 Sharks
    Waikato Stadium, Hamilton

Record: 3 wins, 1 loss


2014

  1. Chiefs 28 – 19 Stormers
    Waikato Stadium, Hamilton

  2. Chiefs 22 – 16 Lions
    Waikato Stadium, Hamilton

  3. Bulls 34 – 34 Chiefs
    Loftus Versfeld, Pretoria

  4. Cheetahs 20 – 20 Chiefs
    Free State Stadium, Bloemfontein

Record: 2 wins, 2 draws


2015

  1. Stormers 19 – 29 Chiefs
    Newlands, Cape Town

  2. Chiefs 41 – 27 Bulls
    Waikato Stadium, Hamilton

  3. Chiefs 27 – 24 Cheetahs
    Waikato Stadium, Hamilton

  4. Sharks 18 – 17 Chiefs
    Kings Park, Durban

Record: 3 wins, 1 loss


2016

  1. Chiefs 37 – 29 Kings
    Waikato Stadium, Hamilton

  2. Chiefs 24 – 22 Sharks
    Waikato Stadium, Hamilton

  3. Lions 43 – 20 Chiefs
    Waikato Stadium, Hamilton

  4. Stormers 21 – 60 Chiefs (Quarter-final)
    Newlands, Cape Town

Record: 3 wins, 1 loss


2017

  1. Chiefs 28 – 12 Bulls
    FMG Stadium Waikato, Hamilton

  2. Stormers 34 – 26 Chiefs
    Newlands, Cape Town

  3. Stormers 11 – 17 Chiefs (Quarter-final)
    Newlands, Cape Town

Record: 2 wins, 1 loss


Overall Rennie Chiefs record vs South African teams

Matches: 24
Wins: 18
Draws: 2
Losses: 4

Win rate: ~75%

Record in South Africa

Played in South Africa: 8

  • Wins: 4

  • Draws: 2

  • Losses: 2

Unbeaten in 6 of 8 matches in South Africa.

Losses were:

  • Sharks 18 – 17 Chiefs (Durban, 2015)

  • Stormers 34 – 26 Chiefs (Cape Town, 2017)

Of Rennie’s 20 positive results (18 wins + 2 draws) against South African opposition:

  • 6 came in South Africa

  • 14 came in New Zealand

Against individual SA franchises

  • Sharks: 4–1

  • Stormers: 3–2

  • Bulls: 3–0–1 (incl. draw)

  • Cheetahs: 3–0–1

  • Lions: 2–1

  • Kings: 2–0

 

Playoff record vs SA teams

  • 2–0

2016 Quarter-final

Stormers 21–60 Chiefs
Newlands, Cape Town

2017 Quarter-final

Stormers 11–17 Chiefs
Newlands, Cape Town

The Stormers team beaten 60-21 at home in 2016 included seven Springboks (at the time). Six of those Springboks would become World Cup winners.

  • Siya Kolisi – future Springbok captain

  • Eben Etzebeth – Springbok lock & the most capped Test Bok.

  • Frans Malherbe – Springbok tighthead

  • Bongi Mbonambi – Springbok hooker

  • Steven Kitshoff – Springbok loosehead

  • Damian de Allende – Springbok centre

  • Juan de Jongh – Springbok centre

Rennie, who won three successive under 20 World titles, won his final one against the Junior Springboks 37-6. It was the only time his under 20s met South Africa in the three tournaments. 

RUGBY’S GREATEST RIVALRY: AFTER 30 YEARS THE ALL BLACKS ARE TOURING SOUTH AFRICA 

Rennie has been appointed All Blacks coach until the completion of the 2027 World Cup in Australia. He replaces Scott Robertson who was axed after two seasons, having won 20 from 27 Tests for a 75 percent win record. Robertson, however lost three from four Tests to the Springboks, including a record 43-10 home defeat in Wellington in 2025.

KEO: MARKUS MULLER WILL PLAY FOR SPRINGBOKS IN 2026

SPRINGBOKS LEAD LATEST WORLD RANKINGS AND ENGLAND DROP TO 6th 

1 South Africa 93.94

2 New Zealand 90.33

3 Ireland 88.89

4 France 87.03 (-1.37)

5 Argentina 84.97 (+1)

6 England 84.34 (-1.28) (-1)

7 Scotland 83.08 (+1.37)

8 Australia 81.53

9 Fiji 81.14

10 Italy 81.09 (+1.28)

Continue Reading

International Rugby

How the French & Scottish rugby media told the story of Murrayfield’s madness

Published

on

By

The French rugby media called it Murrayfield’s madness. The Scottish rugby media called it Murrayfield’s magical night. Scotland’s 50-40 Six Nations win crushed France’s Grand Slam and turned the tournament’s last round into a three-horse race for the title.

France, Scotland or Ireland can win the title.

France hosts England and Ireland is at home to Scotland.

Ireland have beaten Scotland 11 successive times, but this season’s Six Nations has been about rewriting history.

How French Media Reported the Scotland Win

Shock and disbelief France’s Grand Slam hopes destroyed.

Typical framing in L’Équipe-style coverage:

  • “La France renversée à Murrayfield”

  • “La gifle écossaise”

  • “Un match fou”

Meaning:

  • France overturned in Edinburgh

  • A Scottish slap

  • A crazy match

Narrative themes

  1. Defensive collapse – France conceding 50 points was central to the coverage.

  2. Discipline problems – yellow cards and loss of control.

  3. Scottish attacking brilliance – especially Finn Russell’s orchestration.

French outlets emphasised the humiliation of conceding a half-century rather than Scotland’s title credentials.


🇫🇷 Midi Olympique

Editorial tone

Rugby analysis rather than emotional headlines.

Midi-Olympique focused on:

  • France’s defensive structure breaking down

  • Scotland’s tempo and width

  • The tactical battle between Gregor Townsend and Fabien Galthié

Typical angle:

France lost the collision battle and could not control Scotland’s attacking rhythm.

They also highlighted the fact that Scotland scored seven tries, one of the biggest attacking displays against France in modern Six Nations rugby.


🇫🇷 Rugbyrama

Editorial tone

“Match de folie” match of madness

Rugbyrama leaned heavily into the spectacle of the game.

Typical themes:

  • 13 tries

  • chaotic momentum swings

  • Scotland blowing the title race open

The site emphasised that Scotland were 40-14 up before France mounted a late comeback, reinforcing the idea that the damage had already been done.

KEO: SIX NATIONS STUNNER


How Scottish Media Reported the Match

🏴 The Rugby Paper

One of Scotland’s greatest modern performances.

Themes highlighted:

  • Scotland scoring seven tries

  • Scotland blowing open the Six Nations title race

  • Finn Russell masterclass

Scottish media leaned heavily on the idea that this was Townsend’s best Scotland performance.


🏴 The Scotsman

Typical narrative:

“A Murrayfield classic.”

Focus points:

  • Scotland’s attacking brilliance

  • Darcy Graham becoming Scotland’s record try scorer

  • belief that Scotland can challenge for the title

The tone was celebratory but also analytical about Scotland’s development under Gregor Townsend.


🏴 Scottish Sun

Tabloid framing:

  • “FRENCH FRIED”

  • “MURRAYFIELD MAYHEM”

The tabloids leaned heavily into the spectacle of 50 points against France, something rarely seen in the Six Nations era.

 SIX NATIONS: EVERY PLAYER STAT, TEAM STAT AND LAST ROUND PERMUTATION

Continue Reading

International Rugby

How the English and Italian rugby media told the story of Rome

Published

on

By

The English rugby media treated Rome – and England’s first ever defeat to Italy – as a national embarrassment. The Italian rugby media media treated Rome as a national coming-of-age. In England, the theme was blame. In Italy, it was belief.

Here’s your summary of Italy’s 23-18 win against England in the Six Nations. It was the first time Italy had beaten England in their 33rd match-up over 35 years.

The English media line

1) The broad English newspaper angle: crisis, collapse, pressure on Borthwick
The dominant English framing was not “Italy were lucky”; it was England hit a new low. The Guardian called it a historic first victory for Italy and linked it directly to England’s worsening form and a potential crisis under Steve Borthwick. The Telegraph’s line was even harsher: England’s Six Nations is “in ruins” and the defeat was “shattering.” The Independent pushed the same direction, focusing on the “horror half-hour,” the squandered lead, and the pressure now building on Borthwick’s future.

2) The rugby specialist English angle: self-destruction and indiscipline
The rugby-first English platforms were even more forensic. RugbyPass framed it as a historic defeat that piles pressure on Borthwick, while Planet Rugby went bigger: a history-making Italy result that leaves Borthwick’s job “on the line.” Reuters, reporting the post-match reaction, zeroed in on Borthwick’s own explanation: ill-discipline. Across those outlets, the common English diagnosis was clear: England were in control, then lost composure, bled penalties/cards, and handed Italy the game.

3) The key English match narrative
Across Sky Sports, Reuters, the Independent and the Guardian, the repeated turning points were the same: England built a lead, then yellow cards to Sam Underhill and Maro Itoje swung the match, Italy attacked the space and momentum, and Leonardo Marin’s late try finished it. So the English press consensus is: this was less an accident than an England implosion under pressure.

4) The official England Rugby tone: controlled, stripped of drama
England Rugby’s own match report was the least emotional of the English sources. It acknowledged the “first-ever” Italy win and the late try, but the wording was institutional rather than alarmist. That contrast matters: where newspapers saw embarrassment and political heat, the RFU house style presented it as a narrow defeat decided late.

The Italian media line

1) The dominant Italian framing: history, taboo broken, national step forward
Italian coverage was almost unanimous in tone: historic breakthrough. Gazzetta dello Sport said Italy “made history” and broke the last taboo in the Six Nations. The FIR official site called it an “heroic” Italy that beat England for the first time. Corriere dello Sport led with “storica impresa,” while Corriere della Sera called it the first historic win over the English and the end of an era of chasing.

2) The rugby specialist Italian angle: Italy are now a real team
OnRugby’s tone was especially revealing. Their post-match report and ratings were not just celebratory; they argued this was proof that Italy is now a proper, dangerous side. Their language around the team being “una squadra vera” was important because it moved the story beyond one upset and into a larger idea: Gonzalo Quesada has built a side with belief, cohesion and edge.

3) The Italian narrative emphasis: courage, crowd, growth, Quesada
Italian outlets kept returning to four ideas: the crowd at the Olimpico, the emotional significance of finally beating England, the character of the comeback, and Quesada’s long-build project. FIR explicitly described Italy as courageous in a messy, difficult match that had seemed to be slipping away. Gazzetta and Corriere framed it not as a freak day but as the latest step in an upward curve.

KEO: SIX NATIONS STUNNER

The real split between England and Italy

The English press mostly wrote the match as an England failure.
The Italian press mostly wrote it as an Italy arrival.

That is the essential media divide.

England’s outlets asked:

  • How bad is this for Borthwick?

  • Why is England so ill-disciplined?

  • How do you lose from there?

  • Is this the tournament hitting rock bottom?

Italy’s outlets asked:

  • How big is this moment for Italian rugby?

  • What does it say about Quesada’s team?

  • Has the final Six Nations taboo now been removed?

  • Can this side go on and make more history?

Outlet-by-outlet quick breakdown

England

  • Guardian: historic Italy win, England crisis, discipline and drift.

  • Telegraph: England implosion, campaign in ruins, serious pressure on Borthwick.

  • Independent: tactical collapse, yellow cards, Borthwick future now a live issue.

  • Sky Sports: historic first Italy win, England misery, inquest mode.

  • RugbyPass: humiliation and heat on Borthwick.

  • Planet Rugby: history made, pressure severe, job-on-the-line framing.

  • Reuters: cleanest straight-news read England lost control through indiscipline.

  • England Rugby: sober official language, late loss, no emotional panic.

Italy

  • Gazzetta dello Sport: history, last taboo broken, emotional national milestone.

  • Corriere della Sera: historic first, comeback, national significance.

  • Corriere dello Sport: “storica impresa,” celebratory and big-picture.

  • OnRugby: detailed rugby reading Italy are now a genuine side, not a novelty winner.

  • FIR / Federugby: heroic, historic, proof of growth under Quesada.

 SIX NATIONS: EVERY PLAYER STAT, TEAM STAT AND LAST ROUND PERMUTATION

Continue Reading

International Rugby

Six Nations stunner as Scotland fry France & Italy shock England

Published

on

By

The romance of the Six Nations reached a peak in Rome when Italy beat England for the first time & in Edinburgh Scotland fried France’s Grand Slam.

What joy for the Italians, the biggest movers in world rugby in the past three seasons.

They won 23-18, having led 10-5 in the 39th minute, then trailed 18-10, only to find something out of the ordinary in 23 year-old midfielder Tommaso Menoncello who scored a spectacular try and made an equally imposing break as the try-assist for the winner in the 73rd minute.

England had beaten Italy 32 times in succession, gone past 50 on nine occasions and blanked the Italians twice in the past 35 years, but in Rome history was there to be written, given England’s Six Nations slump, and Italy duly rewrote history.

It was glorious for the Italians and equally mesmerising for the rugby neutral. This was a win that has been building for a bit. Italy, this season, won against Scotland in Rome, were in touching distance of toppling Ireland in Dublin and trailed France 19-11 with 10 minutes to go in Lille.

France, in scoring three late tries, won more comfortably than the first 70 minutes played out, and Italy took those painful lessons and applied them in Rome. They played until the 81st minute, refusing to cave to expectation or implode in what is among their biggest wins in history.

Italy have won against the Springboks once and Australia a couple of times. They have beaten France, Ireland, Scotland and Wales, but never England and the All Blacks. Now that list is down to just the All Blacks.

England, in the last month, have gone from a team unbeaten in 12 matches, to one shell-shocked with three successive defeats, hammerings to Scotland (away) and Ireland (home).

Now this result in Rome and France in Paris still to come next weekend.

Their next Test is on the 4th July against the world champion Springboks in Pretoria.

A month ago the English were pleading to play the Boks the next weekend. The ‘Bring on the Boks’ chorus is now on mute.

Scotland, beaten in the opening round in Rome, responded with a comprehensive home win against England before a late seven pointer in the 75th minute downed Wales in Cardiff.

On Saturday, at Murrayfield, Scotland were irresistible in scoring 40 unanswered points in as many minutes in the last 20 of the first half and the first 20 of the second half to turn a 14-7 deficit into a 47-14 lead. France scored two tries in the back end to bring it back to 47-26 with less than 10 minutes to go. Finn Russell kicked a penalty to bring up the 50 and in a bizarre finish to the Test, France scored two more tries in the last three minutes to force a scoreline of 50-40, which was everything but how the match had played out for 65 minutes.

Scotland travel to Dublin in next weekend’s final round with the hopes of winning the title, should France stumble at home to England.

Ireland can also win the title if they beat Scotland and France lose to England.

SIX NATIONS: EVERY MATCH REPORT, PLAYER STAT AND TEAM STAT FROM ROUND 4

*Ireland, on Friday night needed a late try to beat Wales 27-17 in Dublin in what was the round of the tournament.

SIX NATIONS: ROUND 3 REMINDER

SPRINGBOKS LEAD LATEST WORLD RANKINGS AND ENGLAND DROP TO 6th 

1 South Africa 93.94

2 New Zealand 90.33

3 Ireland 88.89

4 France 87.03 (-1.37)

5 Argentina 84.97 (+1)

6 England 84.34 (-1.28) (-1)

7 Scotland 83.08 (+1.37)

8 Australia 81.53

9 Fiji 81.14

10 Italy 81.09 (+1.28)

 

Continue Reading

KEO News Wire

SA teams flex their muscle as URC heats up

Published

on

By

South Africa’s URC franchises continue to make their presence felt across the competition’s statistical landscape, with Round 12 offering another reminder of the attacking firepower and individual quality spread across the Vodacom Bulls, DHL Stormers, Hollywoodbets Sharks and Fidelity SecureDrive Lions.

From the Bulls’ scoring spree to the Stormers’ territorial dominance and several standout individual performances, the numbers from the latest round – and the season as a whole – underline just how influential the South African sides remain.

Bulls lead the attacking charge

If there was one South African side that truly lit up Round 12, it was the Vodacom Bulls.

Jake White’s men finished the round top of the tries scored chart with seven, while also leading the competition for points scored with 41. 

Those numbers reflect a Bulls side that has increasingly leaned into its attacking weapons. With players such as Canan Moodie, Sebastian de Klerk and Embrose Papier capable of breaking games open, the Pretoria outfit continues to show why it remains one of the competition’s most dangerous attacking teams.

Over the course of the season, that attacking consistency has also paid dividends. The Bulls sit third overall for tries scored with 45, trailing only Glasgow Warriors and Leinster. 

Individually, Bulls players also featured strongly in the Round 12 metrics. Centre Harold Vorster topped the round’s line-break statistics with four, while scrumhalf Embrose Papier was among the leaders for metres gained. 

Stormers creating pressure

The DHL Stormers may not have dominated the Round 12 scoreboard, but the numbers show they still spent plenty of time on the front foot.

John Dobson’s side finished first for visits to the opposition 22 with 15, highlighting the territorial pressure they were able to apply. 

That ability to create opportunities remains one of the Stormers’ biggest strengths. Even when finishing proves difficult, the Cape side consistently generates attacking platforms.

Among the individual standouts, Evan Roos once again showed his influence with 15 carries in the round, placing him among the most active ball carriers in the competition. 

Roos’ work rate and dynamism have been a hallmark of the Stormers’ pack all season.

Lions continue to deliver attacking output

The Fidelity SecureDrive Lions have quietly built one of the more productive attacking records in the competition.

In Round 12 they finished joint second for points scored with 24, underlining their ability to convert opportunities when they present themselves. 

Across the season the Johannesburg side has maintained that attacking momentum, ranking among the top teams for points scored with 325. 

Players like Henco van Wyk and Quan Horn continue to provide attacking spark, with Horn also featuring prominently in the season-long kicking metrics.

Sharks battling in the physical exchanges

For the Hollywoodbets Sharks, Round 12 highlighted the defensive demands they faced.

The Durban side recorded 92 tackles during the round, reflecting the physical workload they had to absorb. 

The Sharks’ attacking threats remain clear, however, with players such as Andre Esterhuizen continuing to feature among the competition’s most effective ball carriers. 

As the season progresses, converting pressure into points will be key to ensuring the Durban side climbs further up the standings.

SA influence remains strong

Zooming out across the full season statistics, South Africa’s presence across the URC remains significant.

The Bulls are among the competition’s leading attacking sides, the Lions continue to accumulate points, the Stormers remain dangerous in opposition territory and the Sharks continue to bring their physical edge.

On the individual front, players like Sebastian de Klerk, Evan Roos, Sacha Feinberg-Mngomezulu and Quan Horn all feature prominently across the competition’s attacking metrics.

With the URC season entering its decisive stretch, the numbers suggest South Africa’s franchises will continue to play a major role in shaping the race for the playoffs.

WHAT SA TEAMS MUST DO TO MAKE THE PLAY-OFFS

And if Round 12 is anything to go by, the best may still be to come.

Key SA team stats

Round 12 – team highlights

  • Vodacom Bulls

    • 1st – Tries scored: 7 

    • 1st – Points scored: 41 

  • Fidelity SecureDrive Lions

    • Joint 2nd – Points scored: 24 

  • DHL Stormers

    • 1st – Visits to opposition 22: 15 

  • Hollywoodbets Sharks

    • Tackles made: 92 

  • Vodacom Bulls

    • Metres gained: 471 (3rd overall) 

  • DHL Stormers

    • Defenders beaten: 30 (2nd overall) 

 

Season totals – SA teams

  • Vodacom Bulls

    • 3rd – Tries scored: 45 

    • 5th – Points scored: 304 

    • 4th – Metres gained: 4430 

  • Fidelity SecureDrive Lions

    • 5th – Points scored: 325 

    • 6th – Metres gained: 4363 

  • Hollywoodbets Sharks

    • 7th – Tries scored: 38 

  • DHL Stormers

    • 13th – Metres gained: 3458 

 

Key SA player stats – Round 12

  • Sacha Feinberg-Mngomezulu (Stormers)

    • 17 carries made 

  • Evan Roos (Stormers)

    • 15 carries made 

  • Harold Vorster (Bulls)

    • 4 line breaks (top in the round) 

  • Embrose Papier (Bulls)

    • 75 metres gained 

  • Andre Esterhuizen (Sharks)

    • 6 defenders beaten 

  • Henco van Wyk (Lions)

    • 5 defenders beaten 

Season player highlights (SA players)

  • Sebastian de Klerk (Bulls)

    • 584 metres gained this season 

  • Quan Horn (Lions)

    • 2,529 kick metres gained 

  • Sacha Feinberg-Mngomezulu (Stormers)

    • 52 points scored this season 

  • Embrose Papier (Bulls)

    • 5 tries scored this season 

ALL THE URC LATEST NEWS

Continue Reading

KEO News Wire

Markus Muller will play for the Springboks in 2026

Published

on

By

Markus Muller 2 16 August 2025 Grant Pitcher Gallo Images

Markus Muller will play for the Springboks in 2026. Good enough is old enough, and Springboks coach Rassie Erasmus has never had an issue picking a young one or an old one.

Muller and SA under 20 captain Riley Norton are experiencing the Springboks culture in Cape Town this week as part of Erasmus’s first national alignment camp for the season as the Boks coach counts down the 21 matches (20 Tests and the Barbarians season opener) before the start of the 2027 Rugby World Cup in Australia.

The Boks, their four World Cup golds the most in the 10 tournament history, would make history in winning a third successive World Cup. They won the 2019 and 2023 World Cups, a back-to-back feat only achieved once before by Richie McCaw’s All Blacks in 2011 and 2015.

Here’s a piece I did on Muller for the Sunday Times.

Markus Muller, the schoolboy sensation from Paarl Gimnasium, needs backing more than protection from the hype.

And that is exactly the endorsement he got from Springboks coach Rassie Erasmus earlier this week with inclusion in the Springboks alignment camp, in Cape Town, next week.

Muller, 18 years-old, signed with the Stormers in 2026 and has already trained with the senior squad. He played for the SA under 20s against Georgia last weekend.

He is an exceptional talent, and age has never been a consideration for talents of his ilk. They transition straight onto the biggest stages

Canan Moodie made his Springboks Test debut in 2022 as a 19-year-old winger against Australia in Sydney. He was superb. A year later he was a World Cup winner.

Frans Steyn made his Test debut against Ireland in 2006 as a 19 year-old winger and was South Africa’s Player of the Match. A year later he was a World Cup winner.

Muller has the potential and pedigree to write a similar script, given the next World Cup is in Australia in 2027.

Erasmus has never referenced age as a negative in his selections. He picked hooker Schalk Brits (38) for World Cup duty in 2019 and entrusted the then 37 year-old Deon Fourie with a multi-faceted role at the 2023 World Cup. Brits and Fourie are World Cup winners.

Some of the sport’s iconic backs were playing Test rugby in their teens. John Kirwan, Jeff Wilson and Jonah Lomu were all All Blacks wingers as 19 year-olds. James O’Connor played wing for the Wallabies as an 18 year-old and the midfield duo of Tim Horan and Jason Little were Wallabies as 19 year-olds.

Muller, comfortable wearing No 12 and No 13, scored more than 50 tries in his Grade 11 and 12 years playing for Paarl Gim, Western Province and SA Schools.

He also kicked many points and in 2025 he scored 43 points in one match.

Having watched him through SuperSport’s Schools broadcasts and seen several of his matches live, his point of difference is not in size, but in a rugby IQ that complements a physical presence.

He is a back, who in his final schools’ year, relished joining the forwards in a lineout maul, as much as he did running a try-scoring support line as a midfield back.

I can see him developing into a hybrid player as he physically evolves.

His try-scoring headlined most of his school matches, but his assists were even more impressive. He is not a one-trick pony who dominated schools rugby because of superior size.

He is a player with an understanding of the nuances of the sport and a natural appreciation that rugby is a team sport.

Erasmus has recognised his on-field quality and will get to experience the youngster’s energy up close. Culture is the essence of Erasmus’s World Cup-winning Springboks.

If a player doesn’t fit in, no matter his pedigree, he won’t get selected.

Muller will fit in and there is no ‘if’ about him playing for the Springboks; the only question is when he plays for the Springboks.

STORMERS SNAP UP MULLER

Continue Reading

KEO News Wire

Vodacom URC latest: South Africa’s road to the play-offs

Published

on

By

Morne van den Berg 28 February 2026 Sydney Seshibedi Gallo Images

URC latest: SA’s road to the play-offs looks good, despite the Stormers mid-season slump. The Cape-based club remain in a strong position, with the resurgent Bulls and Lions running hot.

The Sharks have work to do to make the top eight.

Here’s everything you need to know about what the Stormers, currently in fifth place, the Lions, in seventh, the Bulls in eighth, and the Sharks, in 11th have to do to make the play-offs.

Bulls

14 Mar – 14:00

Bulls vs Stormers

20 Mar – 19:00

Bulls vs Cardiff Rugby

28 Mar – 14:00

Bulls vs Munster

17 Apr – 20:45

Dragons vs Bulls

25 Apr – 20:45

Scarlets vs Bulls

09 May – 13:45

Bulls vs Zebre

16 May – 16:00

Bulls vs Benetton

Stormers

14 Mar – 14:00

Bulls vs Stormers

22 Mar – 15:00

Stormers vs Dragons

28 Mar – 19:00

Stormers vs Edinburgh

18 Apr – 13:45

Stormers vs Connacht

25 Apr – 13:45

Stormers vs Glasgow Warriors

08 May – 20:45

Ulster vs Stormers

15 May – 20:45

Cardiff Rugby vs Stormers

Lions

21 Mar – 14:45

Lions vs Edinburgh

28 Mar – 16:30

Lions vs Dragons

18 Apr – 16:00

Lions vs Glasgow Warriors

25 Apr – 16:00

Lions vs Connacht

09 May – 18:30

Leinster vs Lions

16 May – 20:45

Munster vs Lions

Sharks

21 Mar – 17:00

Sharks vs Munster

27 Mar – 19:00

Sharks vs Cardiff Rugby

18 Apr – 20:45

Ospreys vs Sharks

24 Apr – 20:45

Edinburgh vs Sharks

09 May – 16:00

Sharks vs Benetton

16 May – 13:45

Sharks vs Zebre

KEO ON THE BULLS RESURGENCE

 

A recap of the Fidelity Secure Drive Lions winning the South Africa Shield, courtesy of the URC official communications team.

Their trophy triumph was confirmed when their 24-10 victory over the DHL Stormers was followed by the Hollywoodbets Sharks losing 41-12 to the Vodacom Bulls.

The Lions won four of their six domestic derbies to finish three points ahead of the Sharks, with the Bulls and Stormers – who meet in Pretoria later this month – now unable to catch them.

As well as topping the South African table, they are also looking good in the overall Vodacom URC log as they set their sights on the play-offs. They have moved into seventh spot following back-to-back Ellis Park victories over the Sharks and now the Stormers.

Skipper Francke Horn said: “It’s been a fantastic last two weeks. Two really good wins, local derbies that in previous seasons could have gone the other way.”

Head coach Ivan van Rooyen added: “I think we’ve grown a lot over the last month. The experienced leaders are driving hard and pushing what’s needed.

“We spoke during pre-season about needing to be better and more consistent against South African teams, as that’s where we felt we lost points in the past. So I’m incredibly proud.”

Playing their first game since the announcement of their new sponsored branding, the Lions built a solid lead against the Stormers in Johannesburg with tries from flanker Sibabalwe Mahashe, centre Henco van Wyk and wing Erich Cronje.

They then defended heroically, keeping their opponents out even when they were down to 13 men following two yellow cards in quick succession, one of which – to prop Conrad van Vuuren – was upgraded to a 20 minute red card.

The defeat for the Stormers came on a weekend when the league table was turned on its head with the top three going into the Origin round of matches all being beaten.

Leaders Glasgow Warriors suffered a dramatic last minute loss to Connacht Rugby in Galway with Kiwi No 8 Sean Jansen scoring a lineout maul try in the final play to secure a 15-10 triumph.

Second-placed Leinster Rugby saw their seven game winning run in the league come to an end as they were defeated 8-7 by Cardiff Rugby in monsoon-like conditions at the Arms Park.

That result sees Cardiff move up to third, overtaking the Stormers who have now lost their last three Vodacom URC matches having won their first eight.

Munster Rugby have advanced into fourth spot thanks to a hard-fought 21-7 win over Zebre Parma at Thomond Park where it was 7-7 at half-time.

The Stormers are down to fifth, while Ulster Rugby have dropped to sixth after losing 21-10 to the Ospreys in Bridgend.

Below the celebrating Lions, the top eight is completed by the Bulls who ran in seven tries in beating the Sharks at Loftus Versfeld, with two apiece from scrum-half Embrose Papier and centre Harold Vorster.

The weekend’s other games saw Edinburgh Rugby beat the Scarlets 24-19, while Dragons RFC and Benetton Rugby drew 15-15 amid more late drama at Rodney Parade.

Ospreys On The Play-Off Hunt

Ospreys coach Mark Jones believes his team can make the play-offs having moved within a point of the top eight by extending their unbeaten league run to five matches with a 21-10 win over Ulster.

They secured the spoils with late tries from Player of the Match James Ratti and winger Dan Kasende in front of their delighted fans at Bridgend’s Brewery Field.

Reflecting on his team’s hopes of qualifying for the knock-out stages, Jones said: “There are six rounds left. We have got to go on the road a little bit in the next few weeks, but we’ve also got some derbies in there.

“There’s a lot of rugby to be played. It is tight. Anybody at any time can get in that top eight at the moment, right down to about 14th.

“One bonus point win, one loss can shift you up and down the table three or four places.

“So we are going to have to string some games together. But that’s five now we are undefeated in the league, so that’s a bit of momentum.

“I do think we can make the top eight. I really believe in the group.”

Trailing 10-7 at the break, the Ospreys hammered away through the second half, but couldn’t turn pressure into points until flanker Ratti went over from a tap penalty 12 minutes from time, with winger Kasende then pouncing to seal the victory late on.

“We made very hard work of it in patches, particularly the second half,” said Jones.

“I think with about 15 minutes to go, it was 70 per cent territory and not a lot to show for it.

“Our conversion rate in the red zone was well below what it normally is.

“But we found a way. We went away from the lineout and went after a tap strike. It was smart from the boys there just to mix it up.

“We have got it up our sleeve. It’s another way of us trying to convert in that area of the pitch.

“We showed some good leadership on the field there to identify it and adjust well. I was really pleased with the composure and just pleased for the boys overall.”

Adding his assessment, blindside Ratti said: “It was a big physical battle.

“Ulster are having a good season and we knew they were going to bring it physically, so it was up to us to match it and try and go beyond.

“We back ourselves against anyone here at the Brewery Field. It’s always a good occasion down here. You can hear the fans all the time. When you are blowing, you hear the crowd. They get behind you and it gives you that little extra bit in your legs to keep fighting.

“Even after we went behind quite early, we were confident we were still going to be in the game. We stuck to our process, fought back and I thought we deserved it in the end.”

Saturday evening’s other game in Wales saw a dramatic ending at Rodney Parade where the Dragons and Benetton drew 15-15.

It looked as though the Italian visitors were going to claim the spoils with Player of the Match Onisi Ratave having crossed twice to put them in front.

But, in the final play of the game, the Dragons’ centre Fine Inise touched down to level the scores.

That gave Angus O’Brien the chance to secure a fifth successive home win for his team, but the full-back’s touchline conversion just drifted wide.

His coach Filo Tiatia said: “What I said to the group is the silver lining is we’ve got two points out of it.

“I was very proud of the performance. The character, the grit, the scrap and the fight wanting to stay in it was excellent.”

Giving the view from the Benetton camp, their skipper Andy Uren said: “We let that one go. We should have won the game. I think we were the better team. We are very, very disappointed.”

Belcher Blown Away By His Team’s Fighting Spirit

Cardiff captain Liam Belcher has paid tribute to the “unbelievable fight” from his team in the wake of their victory over league champions Leinster.

Belcher’s boys triumphed 8-7 at a rainswept Arms Park as they held firm in the tense closing stages to end their opponents’ 11-match winning run in all competitions and move up to third in the Vodacom URC table.

The way they saw the game out was all the more impressive given they were down to 14 men for the final 15 minutes with winger Jacob Beetham unable to get back on the field following his yellow card as his team ran down the clock in a protracted final play.

“From the boys’ point of view, the fight they showed in that weather was unbelievable,” said Wales hooker Belcher.

“It was sopping out there. It was like a monsoon in the first half, so fair credit to them.

“We did the last 15 minutes with 14 men because we didn’t get Jacob back on quick enough. That’s just a credit to the squad.”

Reflecting on the win, he added: “For the table, it’s quite big. It hopefully puts us in a better position than we were last year.”

Beetham was understandably relieved, with Leinster having crossed straight after his 65th minute sin binning for a deliberate knock-on to cut the deficit to just a point.

“When they scored that try, I was thinking the worst and thinking ‘Oh no’ because it feels like it comes back on you if you are the one that has got the yellow,” he said.

“I wanted to get back on and I was a little bit nervous at the end. I was just so happy when we managed to keep them out and come away with the win. It was really cool.

“A win against Leinster is amazing. They are such a great outfit, so whenever we get a chance to play a team like that you are licking your lips thinking this could be an amazing win if we get it. To be fair, we stuck to our game plan and it worked.”

Head coach Corniel van Zyl picked out one area of his team’s performance for particular praise.

“Our discipline was the best it has been this season and potentially what I can remember in my coaching experience because we only conceded three penalties which was massive,” he said.

“It’s always nice to get on the right side of the result. I thought we adapted well to the conditions. Obviously the kicking came into play and I was pleased with how the plan unfolded.

“We pride ourselves on performing at home. We want to make this place a fortress and be as good as we can at the Arms Park in front of our friends and families. That was the biggest focus.”

Cardiff’s try came from scrum-half Aled Davies who claimed his first touchdown for the club.

“It was great. The weather was tough, but we played some good rugby,” he said.

“We have got big games coming up and we know that, so it’s important for us to really crack on with the end of the season.”

Leinster coach Leo Cullen said: “I thought Cardiff deserved to win. They were better in terms of their kicking strategy and they were incredibly disciplined with everything that they did.”

In Friday night’s other game, Edinburgh played some sparkling rugby as they came from 14-0 down to beat the Scarlets 24-19 at the Hive Stadium, with full-back Harry Paterson claiming the winning try 11 minutes from time.

Their coach Sean Everitt commented: “My nerves were shot after that! It must have been enjoyable to watch from the side, I’m sure.

“I didn’t think it would be perfect, but I didn’t expect to have conceded 15 turnovers by half-time. So that put us under the pump.

“It was then just about looking after the ball and tidying up the breakdown. We put together the first 10 minutes in the second half really well and that set the foundation for us.”

Scarlets director of rugby Nigel Davies said: “We were on top in the main in the first half, but Edinburgh played some great rugby in the second half and we couldn’t contain them. We had opportunities, but we just weren’t clinical enough.”

What’s Coming Next?

There’s a break from league action next week as the focus switches back to the Guinness Six Nations.

But there are three rearranged fixtures on the eve of the Super Saturday finale to the Championship, with Connacht hosting the Scarlets and Edinburgh entertaining Ulster on Friday, March 13. The Bulls are at home to the Stormers on Saturday, March 14.

Then there’s a full programme on the weekend of March 20-21.

 

 

 

Continue Reading

KEO News Wire

Brutal Bulls. Beautiful rugby. Bumper crowd.

Published

on

By

The Bulls were brutal in their slaughter of the Sharks, but the rugby they played was beautiful.

And 33 000 made it to Loftus for the celebration.

This was another statement made by Johan Ackermann’s Bulls. A few weeks ago they were as imposing in scoring 52 points against the Lions at Ellis Park.

They won 41-12 against the Sharks at Loftus on Saturday, but with more accurate goal kicking, they would have passed 50 points.

The Sharks, but for a brief period in the second half, were never in this game. They were shut out defensively in the opening quarter and when the Bulls got a chance to strike, they did so through the Midas touch of Canan Moodie.

Moodie is a special player, whether playing right wing or outside centre.

On Saturday, he played in the No 13 jersey, and defensively he produced a masterclass to contain the dangerous Jurenzo Julius. On attack, he was even better. Moodie glides, but there is an acceleration that is a differentiator. He showed this in scoring his try after inside centre Harold Vorster had made the initial running.

Vorster was outstanding against the Lions and he was influential against the Sharks. He was up against the in-form Andre Esterhuizen, the Sharks captain and bulldozer.  He stood his ground and provided pivotal attacking moments.

Esterhuizen is a beast and he is always going to keep three defenders busy, but on Saturday even he was powerless to halt a Bulls stampede that yielded four tries within 35 minutes.

Vorster made two tries and scored the final one of the match.

Bulls scrumhalf Embrose Paper benefitted from accuracy in his support line running, but his all-round game was impressive. He kicked with authority and he played with balance. His partnership with veteran World Cup-winning flyhalf Handre Pollard will be significant in the Bulls charge for the play-offs.

The Bulls forwards, collectively, were united and in sync. Individually, Elrigh Louw, Nizaam Carr and Ruan Nortje were prominent, and it took replacement prop Wilco Louw just one scrum to stabilise the Bulls scrum when introduced in the 55th minute and just a second scrum to win the Bulls a penalty.

The Bulls, transformed in playing style, discipline, conviction, attacking shape and defensive mongrel from the side that lost seven successive matches in all competitions earlier in the season, made it four wins on the bounce in the URC, with three of them being away from home.

I was at Loftus for the Bulls Investec Champions Cup defeat to Bordeaux when they conceded 21 unanswered points in the second half and failed to score a point in the last 40 minutes after scoring 33 points in the first half.

I watched them disintegrate against Bristol in conceding four tries within 15 minutes and 61 points.

Ackermann was at a loss to explain the ineptness of such quality players, the lack of care for the ball when in possession, the ease with which they raised the white flag defensively and the lack of appetite for the jersey.

They were a shambles.

URC ORIGIN WEEKEND: SA SCHOOLS SYSTEM WORKS

Ackermann had inherited support staff coaches in Andries Bekker and Chris Rossouw, who had been long-time assistants to the departed head coach and Director of Rugby Jake White.

Ackermann had to make a change and get his own assistants into the coach’s box, take charge of the forwards and lay down the law that this was his team and that they would play his way, which has always been a convincing mixture of power and pizzaz.

What I saw at Loftus against the Sharks was a team coached by Johan Ackermann, playing with the balance he preaches as a coaching philosophy and with the heart that he has always demanded from players.

They cared.

They defended their try line when leading 36-12 as if they were leading 13-12.

There has been a cultural shift for the Bulls, led by Ackermann, who in the seven successive defeats in all competitions earlier in the season, insisted that things would change for the better.

They have and the wins against the Lions and Sharks are confirmation that the Bulls are back and that alone is a thing of beauty in the context of South African rugby.

As for the Sharks, to borrow from their coach JP Pietersen, the past fortnight has been a case of one step forward and three back, especially after the back-to-back wins against the Stormers.

AFRICA PICKS: WINNING WITH THE BULLS

Scorers

For the Bulls:
Tries: Moodie, De Klerk, Papier 2, Vorster, De Wet, Vorster
Cons: Pollard 3

For the Sharks:
Tries: Van der Merwe, Jacobs
Cons: Hendrikse

Teams:

Bulls: 15 David Kriel, 14 Sebastian de Klerk, 13 Canan Moodie, 12 Harold Vorster, 11 Kurt-Lee Arendse, 10 Handre Pollard, 9 Embrose Papier; 8 Nizaam Carr, 7 Elrich Louw, 6 Marcell Coetzee, 5 Ruan Nortje, 4 Ruan Vermaak, 3 Morne Smith, 2 Jan Hendrik Wessels, 1 Alulutho Tshakweni
Substitutes: 16 Marco van Staden, 17 Sti Sithole, 18 Wilco Louw, 19 Cobus Wiese, 20 Jeandre Rudolph, 21 Paul de Wet, 22 Willie le Roux, 23 Stravino Jacobs

Sharks: 15 Jaco Williams, 14 Edwill van der Merwe, 13 Jurenzo Julius, 12 Andre Esterhuizen (captain), 11 Makazole Mapimpi, 10 Jordan Hendrikse, 9 Jaden Hendrikse, 8 Phepsi Buthelezi, 7 Vincent Tshituka, 6 Tino Mavesere, 5 Emile van Heerden, 4 Jason Jenkins, 3 Vincent Koch, 2 Eduan Swart, 1 Ox Nche
Substitutes: 16 Fez Mbatha, 17 Phatu Ganyane, 18 Hanro Jacobs, 19 Corne Rahl, 20 Thomas Dyer, 21 Ross Braude, 22 Siya Masuku, Yaw Penxe

 

 

 

Continue Reading

KEO News Wire

Clarity beats clutter as lethal Lions outthink and outplay the Stormers

Published

on

By

The difference at Ellis Park was clarity of thought and a respect for ball possession. The Lions had it and the Stormers didn’t.

Heroic defence in the final quarter complemented an on-field rugby intelligence the Stormers could not match as the Lions won 24-10 in their Vodacom United Rugby Championship derby.

It was a match they never looked like losing as a double strike within a few minutes took them to 14-0 after the first 20 minutes had been scoreless.

Morné van den Berg controlled the derby from the first quarter and never loosened his grip. The Springbok scrumhalf was decisive, accurate and composed.

Van den Berg’s kicking game turned the Stormers repeatedly and his contestable kick led to winger Angelo Davids’ chase and offload for Siba Mahashe’s opening try. Minutes later, a clever short bounce kick from Van den Berg created indecision and Henco van Wyk profited. Two moments. Two correct decisions. Fourteen points.

The Lions kept it simple: catch, pass and kick when required. They attacked from the right areas and forced the Stormers to play from deep. They needed just 24 tackles in the first half because they owned territory and possession.

The Stormers looked like a side that had not played for a month. Their aerial work was poor. Their handling was loose and their decision-making was muddled. When they had the ball, they forced offloads and when they required patience, they rushed most things.

This is a team that in the last month has sought the sensational in execution when the situation screamed simplicity.

The Stormers improved at scrum time after the break and gained territory. The Lions conceded penalties and lost two players to head-contact cards, playing with 13 for a decisive period and 14 v 15 in the final five minutes.

That should have been the Stormers’ moment, when having 15 versus 13, but it wasn’t because of poor decision-making and a disregard for the preciousness of the ball in the contact.

Held up three times over the line, they failed to score a single point in the final half hour despite the numerical advantage. The Lions defended with determination, but also structure in the final quarter, and attacked with potency when transitioning. The Stormers, who self-destructed often in their own half, attacked without precision when given so many try-scoring opportunities in the second half.

URC ORIGIN WEEKEND:  SA’S SCHOOLS SYSTEM WORKS

The win was the Lions fourth from their six derby matches and it secured them the SA Shield, with the winner determined exclusively from the derby matches. The Lions also consolidated a top eight URC league position.

The Stormers, unbeaten and top a month ago, have now lost three straight league matches and four of their last five in all competitions.

AFRICA PICKS: RUGBY’S LATEST VALUE BETS

Scorers

Lions

Tries: Siba Mahashe, Henco Van Wyk, Erich Cronje.

Conversions: Chris Smith (3)

Penalties: Smith

Stormers

Try: JD Schickerling

Conversion: Sacha Feinberg-Mngomezulu

Penalty: Feinberg-Mngomezulu

Teams:

Lions: 15 Quan Horn, 14 Kelly Mpeku, 13 Henco van Wyk, 12 Bronson Mills, 11 Angelo Davids, 10 Chris Smith, 9 Morné van den Berg, 8 Francke Horn (captain), 7 Batho Hlekani, 6 Siba Mahashe, 5 Darrien Landsberg, 4 Etienne Oosthuizen, 3 RF Schoeman, 2 PJ Botha, 1 SJ Kotze.
Substitutes: 16 Franco Marais, 17 Eddie Davids, 18 Conrad van Vuuren, 19 Reinhard Nothnagel, 20 Siba Qoma, 21 Renzo du Plessis, 22 Nico Steyn, 23 Erich Cronjé

Stormers: 15 Warrick Gelant, 14 Dylan Maart, 13 Wandisile Simelane, 12 Jonathan Roche, 11 Leolin Zas, 10 Sacha Feinberg-Mngomezulu, 9 Stefan Ungerer, 8 Evan Roos, 7 Ben-Jason Dixon, 6 Paul de Villiers, 5 JD Schickerling (captain), 4 Adré Smith, 3 Sazi Sandi, 2 JJ Kotzé, 1 Ntuthuko Mchunu.
Substitutes: 16 André-Hugo Venter, 17 Vernon Matongo, 18 Zachary Porthen, 19 Connor Evans, 20 Marcel Theunissen, Hacjivah Dayimani, 22 Imad Khan, 23 Jurie Matthee

 

 

Continue Reading

KEO News Wire

South Africa’s State of Origin – our Schools system works

Published

on

By

The elite layer is concentrated but across the Bulls, Lions, Sharks and Stormers there are 64 schools represented. That tells you the base of the South African game is broad and that the state of Origin on this celebratory United Rugby Championship Origin weekend is healthy.

The natural feeder system is in Paarl and Stellenbosch. It has always been the case with Paarl Boys High, Paarl Gim, Paul Roos and Boland Landbou producing elite professional players with each matric cycle.

Grey College, in the past 30 years, has owned the title of a Springboks and professional rugby player factory more than any other school in the country. Others, like Boshaai, Gim and Paul Roos are always present, but over this period Grey College has produced the greatest number.

In this URC season, Grey College and Boshaai share the top spot of providing 18 players, split across all four South African URC clubs.

Krugersdorp’s Monument (Lions) and Bishops (Stormers) are a celebration of home grown talent graduating from schoolboy to professional rugby without having to relocate, while the traditional rugby powerhouses in Kwazulu-Natal (Glenwood, Hilton, Westville and Maritzburg College) continue to make a statement that local is lekker in KZN.

The Bulls, of the four SA clubs, have the most extensive recruitment drive, and have over the years consistently been leaders in securing the most sought after talent, be it out of school or at a later stage.

Bloemfontein, by way of Grey College, and Paarl, are greater feeders for the Bulls, who have not relied exclusively on the Schools Big Five. Many a player from local schools has proven good enough to be contracted.

The Stormers will also feel they’ve been true to realism in their recruitment because there are only so many players who can be signed and the core of the country’s elite talent comes out of the Western Cape.

The fact that these players are willing to relocate and are so sought after is what ensures a balance in domestic strength, which is illustrated in this season’s URC SA Shield. With two rounds to play, any one of the four teams could win the Shield. The final SA derby is played at Loftus between the Bulls and Stormers, and the Shield winner could come down to this match.

There could also be a situation where all four teams end on three wins from six.

AFRICA PICKS: CASHING IN ON SA’S DERBY SUPER SATURDAY

BULLS v SHARKS: WIN WITH AFRICA PICKS

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by SA Rugby magazine (@sarugbymag)

The elite layer is concentrated, with Grey College and Boshaai the most prominent producers of professional players, but the good news story is a reach that extends to another 62 schools.

What it says to me is that if you are good enough you will make it, regardless of the school you attended.

One only has to look at the composition of the back to back World Cup-winning Springboks to have this point reinforced. So many of those gold medal winners did not come through the elite and premier rugby schooling institutions.

The URC’s Origin weekend is a celebration of a player’s roots, and an acknowledgement of where it all started, but it is also a statement of what is good in the schools system in South African rugby.

TOP 10 SCHOOL PRODUCERS OF SA-BASED URC PLAYERS IN 2025/26

1. Grey College 18 players

  • Bulls: 8

  • Sharks: 4

  • Stormers: 4

  • Lions: 2

1. Paarl Boys’ High School 18 players

  • Lions: 6

  • Sharks: 5

  • Stormers: 4

  • Bulls: 3

Behind them:

3. Paul Roos Gymnasium 12

  • Stormers: 5

  • Sharks: 4

  • Bulls: 2

  • Lions: 1

4. Paarl Gimnasium 10

  • Bulls: 4

  • Stormers: 4

  • Sharks: 2

5. Hoërskool Monument 9

  • Lions: 7

  • Sharks: 2

Those five schools alone account for 67 contracted players across the four South African URC franchises.

That is the spine of the professional game.

Then comes the second tier:

Glenwood High School 8

  • Sharks: 4

  • Lions: 2

  • Bulls: 2

Bishops Diocesan College 8

  • Stormers: 6

  • Bulls: 1

  • Lions: 1

Westville Boys’ High School 5

  • Sharks: 3

  • Bulls: 1

  • Lions: 1

Maritzburg College 5

  • Sharks: 3

  • Stormers: 2

Afrikaanse Hoër Seunskool (Affies) 4

  • Bulls: 1

  • Sharks: 1

  • Lions: 1

  • Stormers: 1

The deeper story is:

  • 64 schools represented

  • 37 schools with one player

  • 11 schools with two players

  • The rest clustered at three and above

So what does it tell us?

First, the elite rugby factories still dominate the professional pipeline. Grey and Paarl Boys are not historical brands they are current production leaders. Paarl Boys High, Paul Roos, Paarl Gim, Bishops and Grey College remain structurally embedded in the Stormers and Bulls pathways. Monument underpins the Lions and Glenwood, Westville and Maritzburg sustain the Sharks.

Second, recruitment has shifted. The Bulls are the most nationally constructed squad: eight from Grey, four from Paarl Gim, three from Paarl Boys, two from Paul Roos. Pretoria contracts beyond provincial borders better than any other franchise.

Third, accessibility remains real. Thirty-seven schools have one representative. That is opportunity and shows that the pathway is not closed but very competitive.

What the numbers from Origin weekend confirm is that the factor model works and that the professional door remains open to any player who is good enough.

SA URC ORIGIN – THE SCHOOLS

18 Players

  • Grey College

  • Paarl Boys’ High


12 Players

  • Paul Roos Gymnasium


10 Players

  • Paarl Gimnasium


9 Players

  • Hoërskool Monument


8 Players

  • Glenwood High School

  • Bishops (Diocesan College)


5 Players

  • Westville Boys’ High School

  • Maritzburg College


4 Players

  • Afrikaanse Hoër Seunskool (Affies)

  • Hilton College


3 Players

  • Northcliff High School

  • King Edward VII School (KES)


2 Players

  • St Albans College

  • Hoër Landbouskool Boland

  • Hoërskool Garsfontein

  • Hoër Landbouskool Oakdale

  • Michaelhouse

  • Jeppe High School for Boys

  • Potchefstroom Gimnasium


1 Player Each

  • St Stithians

  • Bersig

  • Hudson Park

  • Linden

  • SACS

  • Stellenberg

  • Transvalia

  • Frikkie Meyer

  • Fichardtpark

  • Graeme College

  • Ben Vorster

  • EG Jansen

  • St Andrew’s College (Makhanda)

  • Dale College

  • HTS Middelburg

  • Durban High School (DHS)

  • Hoërskool Klerksdorp

  • Hoërskool Tygerberg

  • Huguenot High School

  • Grey High School

  • Jim Mvabaza Senior Secondary

  • Piet Retief High School

  • Churchill Boys High School

  • HTS Louis Botha

  • Queens College

  • Hoërskool Oos-Moot

  • Diamantveld

  • Wonderboom

  • Outeniqua High School

  • Hoërskool Eldoraigne

  • Northwood

  • St John’s College

  • Rondebosch Boys’ High

  • Wynberg Boys’ High

  • Hoërskool Pietersburg

  • Welkom Gimnasium

  • Hoërskool Brandwag

  • Hermanus High School

  • Hoërskool Riebeeckstad

  • Klein Nederburg

  • Hoërskool Standerton

  • Total schools represented: 64

  • 2 schools with 18 players

  • 1 school with 12

  • 1 school with 10

  • 1 school with 9

  • 2 schools with 8

  • 2 schools with 5

  • 2 schools with 4

  • 2 schools with 3

  • 7 schools with 2

  • 42 schools with 1

 

 

Continue Reading

International Rugby

Bok Damian de Allende is the best No 12 in the world

Published

on

By

Springboks and Wild Knights Damian de Allende continues to set the standards among No 12s in world rugby. He is the best – and has been for some time.

In the Keo & Zels show earlier this week, there was agreement that De Allende remains the standout No 12 in the game.

Keo: Damian de Allende has done it all. Two World Cups. Rugby Championships. Outstanding for Munster in the URC and Investec Champions Cup. A superstar in Japan. A force for the Stormers and Western Province.

Yet when the “best No 12 in the world” debate starts, his name is often an afterthought.

Ireland’s Stu McCloskey has had a strong Six Nations and suddenly some commentators are calling him the benchmark. That’s recency bias. De Allende has been the benchmark for a decade.

He is the glue in the Springbok midfield. When he plays, they are a different side. When he doesn’t, you feel it. Sonny Bill Williams said last season that the most undervalued piece of the South African World Cup puzzle is Damian de Allende. He’s right.

De Allende has strength in contact, a complete passing game and a rugby IQ that the public underrates but coaches don’t. Tony Brown rates him the best passer in the Bok set-up.

The move to Japan extended his career. League One is improving every season, but it’s not the weekly collision of the URC or Top 14. It has preserved him and I believe he has another World Cup in him.

 If we’re picking a No 12 tomorrow? I take him. Every time. He is the best No 12 in the world.

ALL BLACKS GREATS RAVE ABOUT DE ALLENDE


Zels:
That’s the difference between media noise and player reality.

In player circles, “Doogz” gets huge respect. It’s the same story as Franco Mostert. At the Lions people asked what he actually did. Then he became a Bok and suddenly everyone understood the work rate and detail.

De Allende does the heavy lifting. He wins collisions. He cleans up. He organises. He makes the right decision more often than not. Players and coaches see it immediately.

In his prime? For me, absolutely – he’s the best 12 in world rugby.


RECALL: HOW RASSIE REINVENTED DE ALLENDE IN 2019

Last weekend he played his 50th match for the Wild Knights in Japan – another reminder of his consistency and professionalism. Whether it was Milnerton High in Cape Town, a World Cup final with the Springboks, Munster on a European night, or League One in Japan, the standard never drops.

ALL BLACKS MIDFIELD MASTER SONNY BILL WILLIAMS GIVES DOOGZ HIS DUES

 

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by Keo_Zels_Show (@keo_zels_show)

 

 

 

Continue Reading

International Rugby

URC: Julius stars but the Lions roar loudest at Ellis Park

Published

on

By

Morne van den Berg 21 February 2026 Anton Geyser Gallo Images

URC: The Lions, with Morne van den Berg massive, roared the loudest at Ellis Park with an emphatic win against the Sharks, for whom Jurenzo Julius was the best player.

Morne van den Berg was the pick of the Lions and the best player on display in the Lions bonus point win. The Springboks scrum half was at the heart of everything good about the Lions performance, in a Round 8 match that was played between Rounds 11 and 12 of the competition.

The win moves the Lions into seventh place in the URC and it also kept alive the SA Shield. Had the Sharks won, they would have claimed the Shield, given they already had three bonus-point wins in four matches against their South African colleagues.

The Sharks have beaten the Bulls and the Stormers twice and lost in the final play against the Lions in Durban a month ago.

But it is the Lions who now can claim the Shield if they beat the Stormers at Ellis Park next Saturday.

The Sharks will play the Bulls at Loftus in Pretoria next week and the Stormers and Bulls will complete the South African derbies within the URC in Pretoria on the 14th March.

The Lions coach Ivan van Rooyen picked his strongest match 23 and they were too powerful and precise for a Sharks match 23 missing seven of their first choice Springboks. Sharks coach JP Pietersen invested in youth and some hardened veterans, but the collective of the Sharks could not match the individual class of 21 year-old centre Jurenzo Julius, who ran with condition and with reward, scored a try, had one disallowed and always made metres in the tackle.

JULIUS IN BOKS MIDFIELD AUDITION

Veteran lock Jason Jenkins battled hard, but that was the lot for the visitors who are ninth in the URC league standings. They have four wins in 11 matches.

Van den Berg was the general at No 9, his halfback partner Chris Smith did not miss a kick at posts and the Lions midfield of Bronson Mills and Henco Van Wyk were convincing as a pairing.

Wingers Angelo Davids and Kelly Mpeku chased everything and turned every kick into an attacking one.

Lions fullback Quan Horn was confident and flanker Ruan Venter, lock Ettienne Oosthuizen were a menace and a presence. My personal favourite Asenathi Ntlabakanye produced trademark tackles, handled the tighthead side of the scrum effectively and was regular in taking the ball to the line.

Van den Berg was very good and the Lions were very good in responding from the 52-17 defeat a fortnight ago against the Bulls at Ellis Park.

The Lions have beaten the Sharks in the last three matches at Ellis Park in the URC, each time comfortably, and have won five of the last six matches against the Sharks.

UNITED RUGBY CHAMPIONSHIP LATEST – WATCH THE LIONS v SHARKS HIGHLIGHTS

Continue Reading

International Rugby

Ireland find their identity & Scotland find a way to win away from home

Published

on

By

Jamison Gibson-Park 21 Feb 2026 Warren Little Getty Images

Ireland are celebrated for finding their identity in a record 42-21 win against England at the Allianz Stadium in Twickenham and Scotland are lauded for finding a way to win a Six Nations match away from home. Here’s your media summary.

What the English media led with

  • England’s recurring fast-start problem became the story again – an opening half-hour where Ireland went 22-0 up and effectively ended the contest.

  • The post-match tone is brutal: “humiliation”, “nightmare”, “questions everywhere” around England’s direction, selection calls, and a side that’s messy under pressure (turnovers, set-piece errors, poor exits).

  • Even where England “had entries”, the message is the same: they didn’t convert pressure into points, and Ireland did –  clinically.

What the Irish media led with

  • A statement win built on speed, accuracy and edge – Ireland’s first-half blitz, then second-half control (Sheehan’s early score after the break = the hammer).

  • The Irish framing is “old guard / leaders / selection calls justified” – Crowley steering, Gibson-Park snapping, McCloskey giving them gainline ballast.

  • Farrell’s tone in reaction coverage: values + connection + belief (less “tactics board”, more “identity restored”).

Former players / influential voices (social + pundit loop)

  • Dan Sheehan (via ITV quote carried by SA Rugby Mag): framed it as hunger + belief + emotional lift after the France loss – and called it one of their best performances.

  • The wider pundit theme (echoed across liveblogs + post-match reaction): Ireland’s dominance wasn’t fluke finishing – it was system + tempo + accuracy, with England chasing shadows and confidence.

  • “I backed England” regret content is already circulating (ex-player prediction culture) with former England fullback Mike Brown getting stick in UK rugby-content spaces after calling it wrong. He is just one of many. Andy Goode called for a rethink of Steve Borthwick as head coach and challenged Borthwick for a rethink of his selections.

South African view (SA Rugby Mag)

Two clean angles SA Rugby Mag are pushing:

  • Mocke the notion that three weeks ago England were favourites to win the World Cup, according to their media, and now they have been destroyed, away to Scotland and at home to Ireland on successive weekends.

  • Player-reaction line: Sheehan’s “special” framing – Ireland tapped into travelling support and came out of the blocks.

What Six Nations official platform says …

The official match report leans hard into:

  • Frenetic start, Crowley penalty, then Gibson-Park’s quick-tap try as the tone-setter.

  • The decisive rhythm: England scratched (Dingwall / Lawrence / Underhill), but Ireland had answers (Sheehan + Osborne) and controlled the contest after going 22-0 up.

KEO’S VIEW

I had England to win 30-21 based on Ireland’s lack of form in November against the All Blacks and the Springboks, and their defeat against France in Paris, coupled with their escape at home against Italy a week ago. What I overestimated was the quality of the England team to respond to last weekend’s drubbing against Scotland at Murrayfield. I also thought England would lift for captain Maro Itoje’s 100th Test for England. I underestimated that Ireland would find their identity or play in a way that speaks to the identity that made them a top two side and momentarily had them ranked one in the world. The visitors were superb. This is the first time they have beaten England by more than 20 points. I thought they were as inspiring as England were inept.

EVERY PLAYER AND TEAM STAT AFTER ROUND 3 OF THE SIX NATIONS


WALES v SCOTLAND – Wales improved, Scotland escaped

Result: Wales 23 Scotland 26 (Turner try + Russell conversion in the 75th minute).

Scottish media tone (and Scotland lens generally)

  • The Scotland lens is “not pretty, but champion teams steal these” – resilience, finish, Russell influence, and bench impact (Turner delivering the match winner).

  • Scotland’s broader narrative: they’re alive in the championship picture (table pressure) because they can now win away, even when off their game.

Welsh media tone (and Wales lens generally)

  • The Wales lens is heartbreak with a sliver of hope: this was their best showing of the championship so far, but they still found a way to lose it late (errors, discipline, closing moments).

  • The hard number that will sit in every Welsh recap: 14 straight Six Nations losses (and counting).

Former players / influential voices (social + pundit loop)

  • The Guardian’s live coverage explicitly notes former Welsh captain Sam Warburton praising Wales’ belief/performance despite the late gut-punch.

South African view (SA Rugby Mag)

  • Scotland “snatch” it from a “passionate Wales” – which tells you the editorial emphasis is Wales’ emotional performance and Scotland’s late ruthlessness.

What Six Nations official platform says …

The official report makes it very usable for your structure:

  • Wales deserved the first-half lead: Carre + Adams tries, Costelow kicking, and a genuine edge in the arm-wrestle.

  • The swing: Scotland’s second-half surge, and Wales being denied their first win again a “remarkable comeback” headline win for Scotland.

KEO’S VIEW

The question is what hurts most for the hapless Welsh supporters; to concede 50 points each time at home or to be five minutes away from winning and then to lose by a late converted try after leading 20-5 early in the second half? Scotland showed composure in the final 10 minutes and Wales, so desperate and filled with desire, had nothing left in the tank once Scotland took the lead 26-23. For a neutral it was a bloody good Test, filled with every drama.

SIX NATIONS ROUND 3 … WHAT WE CALLED

Continue Reading

KEO News Wire

Ellis Park is a Springboks audition for Julius and Van Wyk

Published

on

By

Jurenzo Julius and Henco van Wyk were colossal midfielders as schoolboys. Now they get the chance to make a statement to Springboks coach Rassie Erasmus that they should be on the national radar, if not for 2027, then definitely for the 2031 World Cup in the USA.

The Lions host the Sharks in the URC at Ellis Park on Saturday, and it is the performances of Julius, for the Sharks, and Van Wyk, for the Lions, that excites me the most in this match.

Julius, many forget, is still just 21 years-old. Equally is Van Wyk’s youthfulness at 24. The latter seems to have been around for a decade.

Both have carried the tag for best of in their class, with Van Wyk the Junior Springbok of the Year in 2021 and Julius the Junior Springbok of the Year in 2024.

Erasmus has never selected on sentiment and he has always been consistent that he differentiates between who is considered the best in a particular position and who is the best for his national squad.

He rates Julius and Van Wyk, having invited them to national alignment camps and picked Van Wyk for the senior SA XV that toured the north a few seasons ago.

Both players fit the mould of what Erasmus wants in a player. They have physical presence, skill and an engine.

Julius was so good when playing for Paul Roos in Stellenbosch, and equally imposing for SA under 18s and SA under 20s. Van Wyk, a few years before that, enjoyed as many accolades as the premier South African junior midfielder.

CASH IN WITH AFRICA PICKS

Van Wyk’s biggest challenge has not been that of selection at the Lions, but being consistently fit and available, whereas Julius walked into a Sharks set-up of Springbok midfielders in Lukhanyo Am, Francois Venter and current captain Andre Esterhuizen.

Ethan Hooker, who was used at centre and on the wing, played Test rugby for the Springboks in 2025 as a winger, but Sharks coach JP Pietersen has paired him with Esterhuizen in the past month. AM has left for Japan and Venter, alongside Julius on Saturday, has a greater mentoring role.

The beauty of Julius is that each time he has been given an opportunity, he has delivered. Van Wyk has shown the same pedigree when injury has not derailed his season.

Julius can play 12 and 13 and would not be out of place on the wing, and Van Wyk’s skillset makes him an option at 12 and 13.

SHARKS SCHOOL STORMERS IN THE URC

Van Wyk, at Monument High and with the Golden Lions Craven Week side, was exceptional at age group level. His transition into junior international rugby and senior rugby was as smooth, until injuries rocked him. From 2022 to 2024, injuries were more damaging than any opponent.

Photo: Christiaan Kotze/Gallo Images

What he is showing this season is the result of uninterrupted rugby. He is sharp, his confidence is obvious and he is the primary point of attack in a talented Lions backline.

South African rugby produces outstanding schoolboy midfielders every year, and the latest is Paarl Gim’s Markus Muller, who is part of the Stormers squad and is currently on national duty with the SA under 20s.

Julius and Van Wyk will be mindful of the hype around Muller and they will be keen to remind him and another 2025 schools graduate, Grey College and Free State’s Ethan Adams, that there is a senior midfield queue and that the class of 2019 and 2024 are on the rise.

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by Keo_Zels_Show (@keo_zels_show)

Recent head-to-head (URC meetings)

  • Jan 2026: Sharks 22–23 Lions (Durban)

  • Mar 2025: Sharks 14–38 Lions (Johannesburg)

  • Mar 2025: Sharks 22–25 Lions (Durban)

  • 2024: Lions 40–10 Sharks (Johannesburg)

  • 2024: Sharks 20–18 Lions (Durban)

Recent encounters show a clear home-field bias in Johannesburg, with the Lions winning comfortably there and edging the most recent contest in Durban.

LIONS v SHARKS: ALL THE TEAM NEWS

SATURDAY FEBRUARY 21

Lions v Hollywoodbets Sharks

Ellis Park, Johannesburg – KO 12.00 IRE & UK / 13.00 ITA / 14.00 SA

Referee: Griffin Colby (SARU, 12th league game)

AR 1: Aimee Barrett-Theron (SARU) AR 2: Zoe Naude (SARU)

TMO: Quinton Immelman (SARU)

Live on: SuperSport, Premier Sports, Flo Rugby & URC.tv

LATEST URC NEWS

 

Continue Reading

Trending

Copyright © 2025 Keo.co.za