Join Archie Wilson as he breaks down the second All Blacks test of the Greatest Rivalry Tour.
Test one is in the books, all the midweek games are complete, and I think every New Zealand footy fan would be lying if they said they were not over the moon with the All Blacks’ 5-0 start to Rugby’s Greatest Rivalry Tour.
With all the context surrounding this second Test, from the weather to the expected Springboks response after being on the end of a “hiding” in their fortress of Ellis Park, it is no understatement to say this could be the toughest Test Dave Rennie’s side will face this season.
When looking at the game, Rassie Erasmus released his squad early, and the main sticking point for me was the fact Handré Pollard was in line to start at first-five for the Boks. The main reason that was so important was because his selection pointed to a shift in South Africa’s system, with the team likely to lean heavily into the high ball, set piece and taking points when they are available. However, there are now reports that Pollard will miss the Test with a calf injury, which could lead to a change at 10 and a shift in game plan.
What this means for the All Blacks is that the game might become slightly more up-tempo than it would have been with Pollard on the park, and that certainly suits Rennie and his side.
I am excited to see if they can once again execute the high-speed footy the All Blacks want to play. If they can, as they did last time, then they will have a chance to keep it really close, if not go 2-0 up in the series.
Tips
Best Bet: New Zealand To Win @ $2.50
Best Try Scorer: Leroy Carter ATS @ $2.20
Same Game Multi: New Zealand To Win, Leroy Carter ATS & Jasper Wiese ATS @ $17.27