The Springboks have levelled Rugby’s Greatest Rivalry in emphatic style, beating the New Zealand All Blacks 33–26 in a pulsating second Test at DHL Stadium in Cape Town — a bounce-back victory that had the whole country on its feet.
The win in the Castle Double Malt series squared the ledger after the opening encounter at Ellis Park in Johannesburg the previous weekend, and it restored all the momentum to the men in green and gold ahead of the third Test.
A flying start in the Mother City
South Africa made a powerful statement from the opening whistle. Jesse Kriel crossed for the first try inside the very first minute, and Damian de Allende and captain Siya Kolisi both dotted down before the break as the Springboks built a commanding 24–14 half-time lead.
When the All Blacks mounted their inevitable fightback, it was the boot of Cheslin Kolbe that kept the scoreboard ticking. The flyer contributed a remarkable 18 points from the kicking tee, helping the Springboks protect their advantage all the way to the final whistle.
A century for Pieter-Steph
The afternoon carried an extra layer of history: it marked Pieter-Steph du Toit’s 100th Test appearance for South Africa, making him only the 11th Springbok ever to reach the milestone.
Deputy Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture Peace Mabe led the tributes, congratulating the team on a performance she said showed the courage, character and determination South Africans have come to expect.
“Pieter-Steph du Toit has served South African rugby with distinction. Reaching 100 Test appearances requires extraordinary commitment, resilience and consistency at the highest level of the game. To celebrate this milestone with a victory over the All Blacks makes the occasion even more memorable,” Mabe said.
Answering when the country called
Mabe praised the way the team responded after the disappointment of the first Test. “The players returned to the field knowing that they needed to produce a strong response. They accepted that responsibility and delivered a performance that has brought the series level and restored momentum ahead of the third Test,” she said.
“This was a demanding contest between two proud rugby nations. The Springboks were tested until the final whistle, but they remained composed and protected their lead under enormous pressure. That fighting spirit made the victory even more meaningful.”
The Deputy Minister also thanked the capacity crowd that packed DHL Stadium — and the millions of South Africans who followed every kick, scrum and try from homes, taverns and fan parks across the country.
With the series now level and a history-making centurion in their ranks, the Springboks head into the decider with the wind firmly at their backs. See you at the third Test, Mzansi.
Photo: commons.wikimedia.org
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