All Blacks head coach Dave Rennie is excited to kick off the Rugby’s Greatest Rivalry series in Cape Town and against the Stormers, after a sitdown with “the Incomparables”.
The All Blacks have arrived in the Republic for seven matches of the tour, running from 7 August to 12 September, against the Stormers, Sharks, Vodacom Bulls and Lions, and three Tests against the Springboks, before a fourth Test in the US.
Speaking on Friday pitchside at a Cape Town Stadium full of supporters, with the New Zealand squad present for a “Welcome to Country” event, Rennie reflected on time with members of the Class of ’96, the last All Blacks side to tour and win a series in South Africa.
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“It was pretty special. We had an evening where a few of them came to share their stories,” he said. “There were a lot of laughs and a lot of critical information, but a good chance for our boys to interact with the team that’s travelled here and been successful.
“It’s been a long time so it was fantastic for those guys to come and speak to us.”
Tasked with prepping the All Blacks to also try and topple the Boks at the Rugby World Cup next year, Rennie explained how this tour format differs from a tournament.
“It’s completely different to a World Cup,” he said. “We were playing the same team four times, so your review ends up being your preview.
“Hopefully you learn a bit and do things better next game. Also, playing the provincial sides, it’s great for the whole squad.”
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Turning to next Friday’s opening fixture, Rennie was wary of a dangerous Stormers side.
“The Stormers have got a great reputation. They had a pretty strong season in the URC. They got away to a really good start.
“I think we’re well aware of all the South African sides. They’ve all got a lot of big men, they play a great brand of footy. Playing in this great stadium, we’re really excited about it.”
The All Blacks boss also confirmed his 44-man squad has arrived in full, barring captain Ardie Savea, who will link up with the group after the Sharks clash on 11 August, ahead of the 22 August Test at Ellis Park.
“Everyone’s here except for Ardie, the last group arrived this morning. Ardie arrives just after the Sharks game. He’ll definitely be available.
“Ardie’s had a massive workload. He’s been playing and training since January 2025, so it’s been about 18 months of top level footy. We just wanted him to take some time out.”
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Rennie also touched on the confidence gained from three straight wins in the Nations Championship, his first matches in charge.
“We’re building; we’ve got a lot of new staff and quite a lot of new young players. We’re learning a lot.
“Ireland was a good performance for us, but we’re well aware of how tough this challenge is, double world champions. Rassie [Erasmus] has done a phenomenal job here.”
He was equally taken by the passionate reception from over a hundred Capetonians at Friday’s event.
“It’s incredible. I know our players often talk about the support that all the Super Rugby teams used to get here, and the All Blacks get here. It’s awesome to start our campaign in Cape Town.”
Photo: Phil Walter/Getty Images
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All Blacks head coach Dave Rennie is excited to kick off the Rugby’s Greatest Rivalry series in Cape Town and against the Stormers, after a sitdown with “the Incomparables”.
The post Rennie shares ‘successful’ All Blacks tour tips appeared first on SA Rugby magazine. Read More
