Cape Town — New Zealand’s All Blacks began their Rugby’s Greatest Rivalry tour with a 38-21 victory over South Africa’s Stormers in Cape Town on August 7, marking their first tour of South African franchise teams in 30 years. The match served as the opening of a series that will see the All Blacks face four South African franchises before contesting four Tests against the Springboks starting August 22.

Despite ultimately pulling away in the final stages, New Zealand faced a stern challenge from a depleted Stormers side. The match was tied at 14-all entering the 65th minute, but the All Blacks gradually asserted control. Key moments included wing Rieko Ioane’s try in the 68th minute, followed quickly by scores from fellow wing Leroy Carter, full-back Josh Moorby, and replacement prop Asafo Aumua, which sealed the win.

All Blacks head coach Dave Rennie highlighted his team’s resilience and fitness as decisive factors in their comeback. “We started very well,” Rennie said, noting the tactical challenges posed by the Stormers’ defensive line speed and aerial attacks. He acknowledged areas for improvement, particularly in set-piece execution and handling high balls, which had tested the All Blacks’ composure early on.

Rennie also addressed a shoulder injury sustained by centre Billy Proctor, who exited the field during the match appearing uncomfortable. “It looks like a shoulder injury,” Rennie confirmed, adding that there were other minor injuries among the squad that would need assessment.

The coach praised his squad’s discipline around breakdowns and their ability to maintain possession under pressure. “Both sides were pretty competitive post-tackle,” Rennie remarked. “We carried and cleaned well at the ruck. If we could hold on to the ball and be accurate, we would find space. Our conditioning and character shone through in the final stages.”

This initial outing provided valuable experience for the All Blacks as they prepare for the upcoming Tests and the Rugby World Cup next year. Rennie emphasized the importance of the demanding tour in assessing squad depth and readiness ahead of these pivotal fixtures.