The legendary All Blacks South Africa rivalry renews at Ellis Park in Johannesburg this weekend, marking the beginning of an historic four-Test series between two nations whose shared rugby history spans more than a century. Across 110 previous Test matches and 105 years of competition, these powerhouse sides have produced some of the most compelling moments in international sports history.
Consequently, as the 2026 tour gets underway, we examine every key stat, record score, individual landmark, and historical milestone that defines this iconic rivalry.
Head-to-Head Test Records and Historic Milestones
Saturday’s clash marks the 111th meeting between New Zealand and South Africa. Across the first 110 Tests played since 1921, the All Blacks have claimed 63 victories, South Africa has secured 43 wins, and four matches have finished in draws. New Zealand maintains a 57 percent winning record overall.
Furthermore, momentum can shift rapidly between these two nations. During their 2025 meetings in New Zealand, the All Blacks won 24-17 at Eden Park before South Africa responded a week later in Wellington with a 43-10 victory—marking the heaviest defeat in All Blacks Test history.
Key head-to-head statistics include:
- 110 Tests Played: The All Blacks have recorded 63 wins compared to 43 for the Springboks, with 4 draws.
- 105 Years of Rivalry: The rivalry began when South Africa first toured New Zealand in 1921.
- 57 Points: The All Blacks’ highest score against South Africa, achieved in a 57-15 victory in Durban (2016) and a 57-0 win in Albany (2017).
- 46 Points: The Springboks’ highest score against New Zealand, set during a dramatic 46-40 win at Ellis Park in 2000.
- 1 Point Margins: Solitary points decided historic encounters, including New Zealand’s first win on South African soil (7-6 in 1928) and the 2023 World Cup Final (12-11).
“With 110 Tests and seven World Cup titles shared between them, no contest in international rugby carries greater historical weight.”
Individual Legends and World Cup Dominance
The impact of the All Blacks South Africa rivalry extends heavily to the Rugby World Cup stage. Combined, the two nations have won seven of the ten Rugby World Cup tournaments ever played. South Africa holds four titles (1995, 2007, 2019, 2023), while New Zealand has lifted the Webb Ellis Cup three times (1987, 2011, 2015).
Legendary fly-half Dan Carter stands as the leading points scorer in the fixture’s history, accumulating 255 points in 21 appearances against the Springboks. Andrew Mehrtens follows with 209 points, while active playmaker Beauden Barrett has surpassed 100 points in the rivalry with 107 points in 26 Tests.
Supporters following player call-ups and roster news can also read our latest report on Noah Hotham joining the All Blacks squad.
Inside the 2026 Rugby’s Greatest Rivalry Tour Schedule
This year’s tour holds immense historical significance, taking place exactly 30 years after the famous 1996 tour when New Zealand won its first-ever Test series on South African soil. The 2026 tour features eight matches in total, including fixtures against provincial powerhouses—the Stormers, Sharks, Bulls, and Lions.
For the first time in the professional era, the two teams will contest a four-Test series. After matches in Johannesburg and Cape Town, the fourth and final Test will take place on neutral ground at M&T Bank Stadium in Baltimore, USA, on Saturday, September 12.
For kickoff times across all upcoming fixtures, check out our full 2026 match schedule page. Dedicated supporters planning to attend live matches can also review official rugby ticket information. Additional international tournament updates are available via the official World Rugby portal.