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The Springboks will head into Rugby’s Greatest Rivalry as reigning world champions and favourites on home soil, but writing off the All Blacks would be a costly mistake.
New Zealand coach Dave Rennie has assembled a squad blending seasoned campaigners with fearless young talent, and while every player will have a role to play across the demanding four-Test series, a handful of individuals possess the quality to swing the contest in their team’s favour.
Here are five All Blacks the Springboks will need to keep under close watch.
Ardie Savea – The heartbeat of New Zealand
Few players in world rugby influence a match quite like captain Ardie Savea.
Although he has been granted an extended break ahead of the opening Test at Ellis Park, the All Blacks’ skipper remains the cornerstone of New Zealand’s challenge. His relentless work rate, explosive ball carries and inspirational leadership make him one of the most complete loose forwards in the game.
The decision to rest Savea before the series underlines just how important he is. With four brutal Tests on the schedule, New Zealand want their captain mentally and physically fresh.
If Savea wins the collisions and dominates the breakdown, the All Blacks will believe they can match South Africa’s famed physicality.
Codie Taylor – Experience that cannot be replaced
Veteran hooker Codie Taylor remains one of the most influential figures in the All Blacks setup.
With more than a century of Test appearances, Taylor provides accuracy at the lineout, mobility around the field and valuable leadership in the tight exchanges.
His battle with Malcolm Marx and the Springbok front row could prove decisive throughout the series.
Taylor also understands exactly what is required against South Africa after years of battling both the Springboks and the South African franchises during the Super Rugby era.
Keeping him quiet will be one of the Boks’ biggest priorities.
Will Jordan – A constant try-scoring threat
Few players possess Will Jordan’s instinct for the try line.
Whether through brilliant support play, aerial dominance or devastating finishing ability, Jordan has consistently punished teams for the smallest defensive lapse.
The Springboks will also have to think carefully before kicking loosely, as Jordan is outstanding under the high ball and lethal on the counter-attack.
He has troubled South Africa before and has the ability to turn half chances into match-winning moments.
Ruben Love – The fearless wildcard
Should Dave Rennie hand Ruben Love the No 10 jersey, the youngster could face one of the toughest introductions to Test rugby imaginable.
Starting against the world champions in South Africa would be a massive challenge, but Love has already shown he possesses the confidence and skill to thrive under pressure.
His willingness to attack the line and play with freedom could provide the All Blacks with an unpredictable edge.
Of course, the Springboks are certain to target him defensively, but if Love survives that examination, his creativity could unlock even the best-organised defence.
Beauden Barrett – Still capable of magic
Experience counts in fixtures of this magnitude, and few players bring more of it than Beauden Barrett.
Whether he starts at flyhalf or fullback, the two-time World Player of the Year remains one of rugby’s greatest game-breakers.
His tactical kicking, vision and counter-attacking brilliance can completely alter the momentum of a Test match.
The Springboks have experienced Barrett’s match-winning ability on numerous occasions over the years and will know that giving him time and space is a dangerous gamble.
A rivalry decided by moments
The Springboks boast exceptional depth, home-ground advantage and the confidence of being back-to-back world champions.
But Rugby’s Greatest Rivalry has never been decided on reputation alone.
If Savea dominates the breakdown, Taylor controls the set piece, Jordan finds space out wide, Love embraces the occasion and Barrett delivers another masterclass, the All Blacks will have every chance of leaving South Africa with a memorable series victory.
The Springboks may be favourites, but containing these five New Zealand stars could be the difference between lifting another trophy and suffering a rare defeat against their oldest rivals.
Source: www.iol.co.za
