The All Blacks have launched their Greatest Rivalry tour in South Africa with an opening victory, but the road ahead promises to be a grueling one. Former New Zealand star Murray Mexted has shared insights, drawing from his extensive experience, about the intense challenges the team will face.
Last Friday, the All Blacks secured a 38-21 win against the Stormers in Cape Town. This marks just the beginning of a series that will see them face South Africa’s top United Rugby Championship teams—the Sharks, Bulls, and Lions—before three crucial matches against the Springboks in Johannesburg and Cape Town, and a final test in Baltimore, USA.
On the eve of their match against the Sharks in Durban, Mexted offered a stern warning to those in the All Blacks squad who are new to the South African rugby atmosphere. He emphasized the stark differences they will encounter compared to their experiences in New Zealand.
"They are fanatical, quite different from New Zealand."
Mexted’s connection to South African rugby is deep, having played two seasons with Natal, now known as the Sharks, and competed against the Springboks during the 1981 three-Test series as well as being part of the Cavaliers team in 1986. His experiences from these earlier times give him a unique perspective on the pressures and expectations the All Blacks will face.
Mexted reflected on the mutual respect between the two nations, particularly in a rugby context, suggesting a unique relationship that has stood the test of time.
"We’re probably the only ones they do respect. They have disregard for everyone else. Sometimes I wonder if we can live up to the reputation we have in South Africa. We are revered in that country as rugby players. They like us as well, believe it or not."
In view of the upcoming tests, Mexted predicts tough games ahead, especially the three against the Springboks, along with the concluding match in Baltimore. He highlighted the competitive nature of tours to South Africa, underscoring the challenges that come with facing the current world champions.
"It is the most competitive environment you can go to as a rugby player," Mexted affirmed. "There isn’t any rugby team in the world that could go on this tour and win every game. This is the hardest place to go and tour."
As the All Blacks progress through their tour, they are set to confront not only formidable opponents but also the high expectations and historic rivalry that define encounters between New Zealand and South Africa. Mexted, remaining a keen observer of these dynamics, expressed his contentment with a potential 2-2 draw in the four-Test series, a testament to the evenly matched capabilities of both teams.
The tour continues to be a significant test for the All Blacks, laden with historical nuance and modern-day challenges. As the team navigates through this pivotal series, the insights from seasoned professionals like Mexted offer valuable perspectives on the enduring and evolving nature of international rugby rivalry.
