South Africa triumphed over old rivals New Zealand in a historic conclusion to their first-ever “Rugby’s Greatest Rivalry” series, securing a 3-1 victory as the world champions. This series, marked by intense clashes, solidified a reciprocal touring agreement that ensures these two rugby powerhouses will meet every four years.

The competition featured Dave Rennie’s side touring South Africa, where they faced four teams from the United Rugby Championship along with four matches against Rassie Erasmus’s Springboks. The final match took place on September 5 in Baltimore, where South Africa came from behind to clinch the series.

Series Results:

• 7 August: Stormers 21 - 38 New Zealand
• 11 August: Sharks 0 - 54 New Zealand
• 15 August: Bulls 19 - 50 New Zealand
• 22 August: First Test: South Africa 16 - 33 New Zealand
• 25 August: Lions 35 - 41 New Zealand
• 29 August: Second Test: South Africa 33 - 26 New Zealand
• 5 September: Third Test: South Africa 29 - 24 New Zealand

This landmark series not only showcased thrilling rugby but also set the stage for future encounters between these legendary teams.