When Ardie Savea first pulled on the black jersey in 2016, he did it at Eden Park. Nine years later, the Wellington-born loose forward returned to the same ground, this time for his 100th Test cap — and delivered a moment that will be talked about for years.
A Century in Black
Savea’s journey to the centurion club has been nothing short of remarkable. From his debut against Wales to becoming the 2023 World Rugby Player of the Year, he has built a reputation for intensity, leadership, and clutch moments. Saturday’s 24-17 win over the Springboks only cemented that legacy.
With the game in the balance and the Boks pressing deep inside the All Blacks’ 22, Savea swooped over the ball just five metres out from his tryline, winning a turnover that effectively sealed the match. It was a classic Savea play: instinct, courage, and timing all rolled into one.
“I just had to stand up for the brothers,” Savea reflected after the game. “As a player, you thrive on pressure. That’s what our people deserve.”
Praise From Teammates, Coaches and Rivals
All Blacks coach Scott Robertson couldn’t hide his admiration. “He makes big plays and sums them up beautifully. That was his moment on the 100th,” Robertson said, calling his star flanker “mentally and physically tough” and a mirror of the battle the All Blacks had to fight.
Captain Scott Barrett went even further, calling Savea the “spiritual leader” of the team. “I’m proud of how the 23 guys fronted up for him. We wanted to make it special.”
Springbok captains Jesse Kriel and Siya Kolisi also acknowledged his career milestone by handing him and signed jersey and congratulating him. Kolisi embraced him with the words “congratulations my brother.”
Later social media was left squeeling after a clip of Savea’s daughter jumped on Siya and excitedly exclaimed “Uncle Siya” after which he said “Hello, how are you, look how big you are,” and asking her if she was proud of her dad.
South African and New Zealand fans were quick to take to social media to acknowledge the sweet encouter with some commenting: “best rivalry in the world,” “this is why rugby is the best sport in the world, guys can smash each other on the field and still be friends off the pitch”, and “Massive respect to Siya and the Springboks.”
More Than Just a Player
For New Zealand fans, Savea has become more than just a rugby player. He’s a symbol of resilience and leadership in a team that has gone through ups and downs in recent years. Social media lit up with posts praising his milestone, with fans calling him “the heartbeat of the All Blacks” and “a warrior who embodies what it means to wear the jersey.”
On a night that was about more than just rugby, Savea reminded everyone why he has become one of the defining players of his generation. One hundred caps down, and it feels like the story of Ardie Savea is still far from over.
Image Source: TFG Sports Club
