Springboks seal 3‑1 series win over All Blacks in Baltimore

The Springboks clinched a 3‑1 series win over the All Blacks in Baltimore on Saturday, outscoring the New Zealand side six tries to four in the final match of the four‑test “Greatest Rivalry” showdown.

The triumph matters because it extends South Africa’s unbeaten record this year to seven wins from eight tests, reinforcing their position as the world’s top‑ranked side and boosting confidence ahead of the upcoming June‑July window against Australia and the Nations Championship fixtures.

"This success will live long in the memory. We must celebrate how we recovered from losing the first Test to win three in a row," said former captain De Villiers on SuperSport TV.

Former lock Victor Matfield praised the squad’s resilience, noting, “We were trailing in the series just a few weeks ago and now we are jubilant.” Flanker Schalk Burger added that the team’s ability to turn pressure into points was evident in the second half, when they dominated the aerial battle.

Wing Breyton Paulse highlighted the improvement in line‑out play, saying, “Virtually every aerial contest in Baltimore was won by South Africa, a result of many hours of extra work at the training grounds.”

How the Springboks turned the tide

Coach Rassie Erasmus kept his composure after the opening loss, insisting the series was still winnable. The shift came when the back‑line, led by the diminutive but fearless Kurt‑Lee Arendse, began winning high balls despite his lack of height. “He is truly amazing,” observed Burger.

Hooker Malcolm Marx earned praise as the series’ standout player, with his strength and skill anchoring the set‑piece platform.

Looking ahead to Perth and the Nations Championship

South Africa’s next test is scheduled for 29 September in Perth against 2027 World Cup hosts Australia. Erasmus hinted that players who missed the New Zealand series, including fly‑half Handre Pollard and lock/loose‑forward Franco Mostert, could feature.

Later in the year, the Springboks will travel to Italy, France and Ireland for the second half of the Nations Championship, before a final‑stage trip to London after the Dublin clash on 21 November.

With a 7‑1 test record for 2026, the Springboks have already beaten England, Scotland, Wales and Argentina this season, cementing their status as the team to beat.