Unique trophy revealed ahead of Springboks-All Blacks series 

by Chumasande Matiwane

A trophy as unique as the rivalry itself has been unveiled ahead of the highly anticipated four-Test series between the Springboks and All Blacks. The new Rugby’s Greatest Rivalry silverware is designed to symbolise the deep connection between the two rugby nations.

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The trophy was unveiled in Johannesburg yesterday, 19 August 2026, ahead of the opening Test at Ellis Park on Saturday, 22 August 2026.  

Former Springbok captain Gary Teichmann and All Blacks legend Sean Fitzpatrick, who captained their respective countries during the 1996 series, were among those involved in the unveiling. 

Picture: Getty Images/Sydney Seshibedi

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A trophy in 2 halves

The most striking feature of the new trophy is that it is made of two halves. Each piece can stand independently, representing South Africa and New Zealand as two proud rugby nations. 

When the two halves are brought together, hidden magnets pull them into a single trophy. The concept is intended to represent how the Springboks and All Blacks remain fiercely independent while being drawn together by one of the sport’s most historic rivalries. 

The design is inspired by a blade of grass, reflecting something shared by every rugby player regardless of nationality. One blade represents South Africa, while the other represents New Zealand. 

The New Zealand side also incorporates artwork by Māori artist Kereama Taepa, drawing inspiration from the Māori creation story involving Tāne and Whiro. 

If one team wins the series, it will take both halves of the trophy home after the final Test in Baltimore, United States, on 12 September 2026. However, should the series finish in a 2–2 draw, each nation will retain one half. 

SA Rugby CEO Rian Oberholzer said, “The possibility of a drawn series was one of the factors considered when developing the trophy. The two teams have also experienced drawn tours historically, with their first tours in 1921 and 1928 both ending without a series winner.” 

With the first Test only days away, the new trophy adds another layer of intrigue to a rivalry that has produced some of international rugby’s most memorable contests. 

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