Springboks, All Blacks Series Finale a USA World Cup Preview

The four-Test series between the Springboks and the All Blacks culminates Saturday in Baltimore, serving as a significant preparatory event for the United States' hosting of the 2031 Rugby World Cup. World Rugby CEO Alan Gilpin views the match as a crucial step in the lengthy process of bringing rugby's premier tournament to American soil, potentially including future Six Nations fixtures in the US long process with venues and cities.

South Africa currently leads the series 2-1, having secured successive victories after New Zealand's initial win. The highly anticipated finale will unfold at M&T Bank Stadium, where the Springboks aim to seal the series win and the All Blacks look to draw level.

All Blacks Face Physical Challenge Up Front

New Zealand lock Patrick Tuipulotu acknowledged the immense physical challenge posed by the Springboks pack throughout the series. According to Tuipulotu, the South Africans have held the upper hand in the forward exchanges, making it "hard" for the All Blacks. Despite New Zealand's 33-16 victory in the opening match, Planet Rugby noted that South Africa largely dominated the fundamental aspects of the game, with All Blacks' defensive resilience and Springbok errors contributing to the outcome South Africa were still dominant.

In the subsequent two matches, the Springboks reduced their error rate and capitalized on their forward power to secure their wins. Tuipulotu, who was brought into the starting lineup to bolster the All Blacks' physicality, emphasized the Springboks' status as the world's best team, particularly in putting pressure on their opponents in key areas. He stated that the All Blacks continuously strive for positivity and to play their best rugby, despite the formidable opposition.

Tuipulotu highlighted the set-piece as an area where the Springboks have demonstrated significant dominance. He noted that the All Blacks have struggled to counteract this, and that new plans are in place regarding lineout defense and scrummaging to prevent the Springboks from gaining an advantage in these crucial facets. The All Blacks have shown flashes of impressive attacking play with ball in hand but have consistently faltered up front against the Springboks' power game.

USA's 2031 World Cup Preparations Advance

World Rugby has been engaged in a two-year process to identify potential host cities and venues for the 2031 World Cup. Gilpin confirmed that over 25 cities remain involved, showcasing significant engagement and enthusiasm across the country 25-plus cities involved. The organization has completed basic feasibility studies, evaluating venues for their suitability to host World Cup-standard rugby, considering factors such as natural turf fields.

The next stage involves receiving detailed submissions from cities, venues, and state sports commissions, outlining commercial aspects, service provisions, and economic considerations. Gilpin also mentioned overlaying tournament window considerations, venue availability amidst the NFL and MLS schedules, and logistical factors like weather and team movement. Baltimore, with its grass field, appears to be a strong contender.

The timing of the Springboks-All Blacks match in Baltimore coincides with the first weekend of the NFL season. While this might seem counterintuitive, Gilpin pointed out the irony that as World Rugby makes its play in Baltimore, the NFL is expanding into rugby territory in Australia with a game at the Melbourne Cricket Ground NFL is in rugby territory. This highlights the globalized nature of sports and the increasing overlap in international events, offering a unique opportunity for both codes.

Gilpin expressed the ambition to finalize a smaller list of venues for 2031 by the time of the next Rugby World Cup in Australia. He noted that lessons from smaller USA Rugby matches this year, while valuable, do not fully compare to the scale and requirements of World Cup venues. This approach ensures a thorough evaluation for a successful 2031 tournament, aiming to foster growth in international rugby news and the sport within the US.

Rivalry and Mutual Respect

Despite the fierce on-field contest between South Africa and New Zealand, a strong sense of mutual respect exists between the two nations. Tuipulotu shared that players have managed to share a beer or two with their Springbok counterparts, even if the demands of modern professional rugby limit such interactions compared to past eras. He believes the two teams bring out the best in each other best out of us.

Historically, tours included more social interaction between opposing teams, with players getting to know each other off the field. However, Tuipulotu acknowledged that the current "high performance" era is more "cut-throat," restricting opportunities for such camaraderie. Nonetheless, the inherent respect remains, a testament to "Rugby's Greatest Rivalry." The All Blacks face a significant challenge in the final match, but the series has undoubtedly provided valuable experience for both teams.