Springboks receive a heroes’ welcome during New Zealand touch down

by Sergio Miller

The Springboks are yet to face their biggest test of this year’s international season when they take on their arch-rivals, the All Blacks.

Coming off the back of a recent victory against Australia in Cape Town, coach Rassie Erasmus and his men have the weight of millions of lively South African supporters resting on their shoulders. This comes as they aim to prove a point by crushing the All Blacks’ 50-match unbeaten streak at Eden Park Stadium in Auckland.

The World Champions currently hold a four-match unbeaten run against the men in black, which stretches as far back as their clash at Twickenham in 2023.

Meanwhile, the team recently touched down on the soil of their rivals, where they received a heroes’ welcome from proud Springbok supporters living abroad.

As imagined, the faces of young South Africans lit up when they were greeted by some of their heroes like captain Siya Kolisi, Eben Etzebeth, Makazole Mapimpi, and Damian Willemse.

Each received a selfie opportunity as well as an autograph, making this a moment they will never forget.

Doctor Rassie Erasmus is optimistic about their upcoming encounter. Speaking to the media upon their arrival, he said, “We travelled well, and although it’s a long trip to New Zealand, we are excited to be here and we are looking forward to the challenge ahead.”

He added, “It’s always tough playing here, but the group is in good spirits, and we are fully aware of the magnitude of the task ahead.”

The Boks are set to play their first of two matches at Eden Park in Auckland on 6 September, and thereafter will be traveling to the Sky Stadium in Wellington on 13 September for their second test match.

Also see: Another Springbok to seek new opportunities?