All Blacks begin South Africa tour, highlighting rivalry and player ties

The New Zealand All Blacks have arrived in South Africa for a series of matches against the Springboks and provincial sides, marking the first proper tour of the country in decades. The opening game at Cape Town’s DHL Stadium drew over 5,000 local fans, many in black, as SA Rugby President Mark Alexander praised the mutual respect between the nations and All Blacks coach Dave Rennie thanked the crowd.

Several All Blacks players have direct South African connections. Winger Mark Telea’s father is from Johannesburg, while Du’Plessis Kirifi is the son of former Springbok‑linked player Jack Kirifi. Former All Blacks such as Fabian Holland, Andrew Mehrtens and Greg Rawlinson were born in Durban before moving to New Zealand. The tour revives a rivalry that began in 1921 and has been shaped by historic moments, including the sport’s role during apartheid and the modern, inclusive era led by Springbok captain Siya Kolisi.