Dan Carter wanted the All Blacks to win all four Tests of the inaugural Rugby’s Greatest Rivalry after the Springboks claimed bragging rights with a 3-1 victory.
Carter, rugby’s record Test points scorer and two-time World Cup winner, on social media said the series defeat was difficult to fathom for his countrymen after New Zealand won the opening Test at Ellis Park.
But, the 44-year-old former flyhalf lauded the respect between the teams over the course of competition, strengthening the rivalry and relationship across both nations and fans.
“I’ve played against the Springboks Springboks enough times to know why this is called rugby’s Greatest Rivalry,” Carter wrote. “I also know how much goes into an @AllBlacks tour like this, long before anyone runs onto the field.
“Losing the series hurts. I wanted us to win every Test, and I know the boys will be feeling it more than anyone. That’s part of this rivalry, neither side ever lets the other settle.
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“There’s something quite funny about calling it the Greatest Rivalry when the game keeps bringing us together. I have huge respect for the Boks. Some of the people I’m closest to in rugby are people I once wanted nothing more than to beat on the field.
“For all the intensity on the field, a tour like this brings players, families and supporters together too. That’s something I appreciate even more now that I’m watching from the stands.
“What a tour.”
Photo: Alan Spiegler/Gallo Images
The post The GOAT: Losing the series hurts appeared first on SA Rugby magazine.
Dan Carter wanted the All Blacks to win all four Tests of the inaugural Rugby’s Greatest Rivalry after the Springboks claimed bragging rights with a 3-1 victory.
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