In an exciting announcement for rugby enthusiasts, New Zealand Rugby (NZR) has confirmed that the All Blacks’ opening match against the Stormers on their South African tour will be broadcast free of charge. This decision marks a celebratory gesture for the All Blacks' first tour in South Africa after three decades, setting an enthusiastic tone for the series.
The match can be viewed via a day pass on Sky Sport Now, which will be free upon checkout after fans set up a new account. This initiative underscores the significance of the rivalry and the historic return of the All Blacks to South African grounds.
Marcus Kennedy, Sky’s Executive Rugby Producer, expressed the anticipation surrounding the tour, emphasizing the comprehensive coverage planned. He stated, "This is the tour New Zealand rugby fans have been waiting for. The All Blacks going back to South Africa for a full tour for the first time since 1996 is a huge moment."
"We want our coverage to reflect that, live from the ground, on the road with the team, and with great rugby analysis in studio, across every Sky platform where fans follow the game."
The broadcast team for the series will feature well-known commentators. Jeff Wilson and Justin Marshall are set to bring their insights to the four Tests against the Springboks. Marshall will also join Jeff McTainsh for the initial three fixtures of the tour. For a touch of digital engagement, Lima Sopoaga will cover the series on Sky Sport’s social media channels.
In addition to the men's games, Sky Sport will also highlight the Black Ferns. The coverage team for the Black Ferns' test against the Springbok Women includes Portia Woodman-Wickliffe and Michaela Brake, scheduled for September 5.
Wallace Sititi from the All Blacks shared his thoughts on the challenges ahead, particularly praising the Springboks’ new talents and acknowledging the formidable strengths of the Stormers. Sititi noted, "The new faces in the Springboks squad are certainly ones to watch. Their quality is undoubted, and the Stormers bring a robust challenge that we must be wary of."
The tour kicks off with the All Blacks facing the Stormers on August 7, 2026, at the DHL Stadium in Cape Town. From there, the team will confront a series of formidable opponents across various venues, with each match promising intense competition and strategic gameplay.
Following the opener, the All Blacks' schedule includes multiple matches against top-tier South African clubs and the national team, each set to be broadcast across different platforms. Fans can catch delayed broadcasts of each match on Three and ThreeNow, ensuring no one misses out on the action.
The tour is not just a display of high-caliber rugby but also an opportunity for the All Blacks to reconnect with their historic rivals on their home soil, promising a series filled with thrilling and strategic displays of rugby.
This series is a must-watch for rugby aficionados, capturing the essence of rivalry, history, and the sheer love of the game. As the teams prepare, fans around the world are gearing up for what promises to be an unforgettable rugby feast.
