For the Springboks, Saturday’s clash against the All Blacks isn’t just another game—it’s a statement. After a challenging season, Rassie Erasmus and his charges face what might be the defining match of their year. And make no mistake: they need a win.
It’s no secret that 2025 has been one of the Springboks’ most difficult years in recent memory. Arguably, it could be their toughest this decade. Every year in the 2020s—except 2020, thanks to COVID—the Springboks managed to beat the All Blacks at least once. Now, unless this relatively inexperienced squad pulls off a miracle, fans may have to wait until next year for another chance.
So, how did we arrive at this point? Just last year, South Africa had one of its best campaigns in recent memory, clinching the Rugby Championship and finishing the year undefeated. What could have changed in just eight months? There are a few plausible reasons for this dramatic fall from grace.
1. An Aging Springbok Squad
Take a look at the squad selected for Wellington: the average age of the starting XV is 29 years. While this is not alarming on its own, key players in both the forwards and the backline are approaching the tail end of their prime. Forwards, in particular—the pack that has been South Africa’s strongest weapon—average 30.1 years. By the time the next World Cup rolls around, a copy-paste of this pack will have an average age of 32.
The backline, on the other hand, sits at an average of 27.5 years—still within a solid age range—but even here, inexperience in key positions could cost crucial moments. Rassie has been rotating players, attempting to build depth and identify the next generation, but the replacements aren’t yet at the level of the players they’re stepping in for. Balancing experience with freshness is a fine line—and one that Rassie now has to navigate carefully.
2. Constant Rotation and a Lack of Consistency
Rassie Erasmus has always been proactive in blooding new talent, and 2024 was a perfect example. The coach used 50 players across 13 Tests, introducing 12 new faces while winning 11 games. Impressive on paper, yes—but context matters. Last year’s fixtures were mostly at home against Wales, Ireland, and the All Blacks, plus a few tours against rebuilding sides. This year, the approach feels different.
The squad has seen eight or more changes in almost every game, leaving consistency in short supply. While giving new players exposure is important, constantly chopping and changing has disrupted rhythm and cohesion. The result? A Springbok side still finding its feet in the Rugby Championship—and facing the daunting task of taking on the All Blacks away from home.
A Crucial Moment
Saturday’s match is about more than just the trophy. For a squad in transition, it’s about confidence, momentum, and salvaging a season that could otherwise be remembered as disappointing. A win won’t solve every problem, but it could restore belief in a team navigating the tricky waters of aging stars, rotations, and new talent integration.
The Springboks have faced adversity before and bounced back stronger. Now, they must summon that same resilience. The All Blacks are formidable, but this South African side has pride, talent, and history on its side. For Rassie and his team, Saturday isn’t just important—it’s imperative.