The Springboks and New Zealand All Blacks will renew their historic rivalry at Ellis Park in Johannesburg on Saturday, 22 August 2026.
The match opens the inaugural Rugby’s Greatest Rivalry series, which features four Tests across South Africa and the United States.
Kick-off is scheduled for 17:00 SAST.
World’s top two teams meet at Ellis Park
South Africa enters the series as the world’s No 1-ranked team and back-to-back Rugby World Cup champions.
New Zealand sits second in the global rankings.
The opening Test gives the Springboks an opportunity to take an early series lead in front of a home crowd at Ellis Park.
All Blacks arrive after three tour wins
The All Blacks head into the Test series after recording three victories over South African club sides.
New Zealand’s tour results include:
- All Blacks 38-21 Stormers
- All Blacks 54-0 Sharks
- All Blacks 50-19 Bulls
The three performances give New Zealand momentum before facing the Springboks.
Caleb Clarke ruled out of Test series
New Zealand’s preparations have been affected by injuries.
Wing Caleb Clarke has been ruled out of the Test series.
Damian McKenzie also remains an injury concern before the Ellis Park match.
Deon Fourie returns to Springbok squad
The Springboks have strengthened their squad with the return of veteran utility forward Deon Fourie.
Fourie brings experience from South Africa’s 2023 Rugby World Cup victory and provides cover at loose forward and hooker.
Springboks vs All Blacks head-to-head record
South Africa and New Zealand have played 110 Tests.
Their head-to-head record stands at:
- Matches played: 110
- South Africa wins: 43
- New Zealand wins: 63
- Draws: 4
The All Blacks lead the overall record, but the Springboks enter Saturday’s Test as the top-ranked team.
Springboks vs All Blacks match details
Fixture: South Africa vs New Zealand
Competition: Rugby’s Greatest Rivalry series
Date: Saturday, 22 August 2026
Venue: Ellis Park Stadium, Johannesburg
Kick-off: 17:00 SAST
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