Stephen Donald has backed the All Blacks to reach the Nations Championship final ahead of the Springboks, who he believes could come unstuck against France.
South Africa and New Zealand are level on 15 log points at the top of the southern hemisphere standings after claiming three home bonus-point wins in July, with the world champions ahead on points difference (+81 to +51).
The Boks beat England, Scotland and Wales, while the All Blacks defeated France, Italy and Ireland.
In Europe this month, Rassie Erasmus’ men face Italy, France and Ireland, while the All Blacks take on Scotland, Wales and England.
In the northern hemisphere standings, France lead the way on 12 points, followed by Scotland (11), England and Ireland (both 10).
The top teams from each hemisphere will meet in the Nations Championship final at Twickenham on 29 November, with the remaining sides also facing their corresponding opponents on finals weekend.
Speaking on The Aftermatch with Kirst & Beav podcast, Donald said he had warmed to the new competition.
“I was a bit of a sceptic, I must admit, around this whole Nations Championship. But I’ve been lured in. I am a fan of it now,” said the former All Blacks flyhalf.
“South Africa are the No 1 team in the world. They beat the All Blacks 3-1 [in the Rugby’s Greatest Rivalry series]. Nothing can deny them that.
“However, one of the All Blacks or South Africa could be undefeated in this competition and not make the final. And it could well come down to points differential.”
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Donald suggested Les Bleus could deal a decisive blow to the Boks’ hopes in Paris on 13 November.
“There is no doubt that South Africa’s run home is significantly tougher than the All Blacks’. And South Africa have got a few big outs [players absent due to injury].
“I still think France blew the game last year against South Africa [losing 32-17 at the Stade de France despite playing against 14 men for the entire second half]. Absolutely blew it. Just dumb.
“Surely they’ve learned from that and, as I said, South Africa have had some big injuries.
“So maybe France do win that and solidify their spot [in the northern hemisphere standings], but also do us here in New Zealand a favour and give the All Blacks a bit of a path in.”
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Donald said picking up bonus points could also prove more difficult for the Boks than for the All Blacks.
“South Africa have a tough run as far as try-scoring [is concerned]. They’ve got back-to-back weeks of France and Ireland.”
Photo: David Rogers/Getty Images
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Stephen Donald has backed the All Blacks to reach the Nations Championship final ahead of the Springboks, who he believes could come unstuck against France.
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