Tendai “Beast” Mtawarira Makes Bold Springboks vs All Blacks Series Prediction
- Tendai “Beast” Mtawarira has made a confident call ahead of one of rugby’s biggest Test rivalries, with his reasoning centred on a familiar Springbok strength
- The former Bok prop believes South Africa have the firepower to make life extremely difficult for New Zealand when the forward battle reaches its most intense stages
- Beast has also recognised the attacking threat posed by the All Blacks, setting up an intriguing clash between physicality and speed
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Tendai “Beast” Mtawarira has made a bold prediction ahead of the Springboks’ four-Test showdown with the All Blacks, backing South Africa in a series he believes could be shaped by the battle up front.
The former Springbok loosehead prop expects the Boks to win the series 3-1, with New Zealand claiming the final encounter in Baltimore. Mtawarira believes South Africa’s forward pack gives them the edge.
Speaking to SA Rugby Magazine on 13 August 2026, he said:
“I think we can prepare ourselves for a massive battle, but I am convinced the Springboks have too much firepower.”
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Springbok forwards key to Beast’s call
Mtawarira expects the Boks to use their pack to gain control through several areas of the game.
“Our pack of forwards will overwhelm the All Blacks. We have an incredible group of forwards who can put us on the front foot in various ways,” he said.
Scrums and the rolling maul could therefore become important weapons for South Africa during the series.
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Beast acknowledges All Blacks threat
Despite his prediction, Mtawarira does not underestimate New Zealand. He praised their ability to attack at speed and highlighted the quality of their backs.
“That is where the All Blacks will probably stumble, although they have the ability to play at a very high tempo and with agile backs can make their opponents chase shadows,” he said.
He also praised Dave Rennie’s rebuilding work, saying the All Blacks “will be battle-ready” after having plenty of preparation time.
Mtawarira’s prediction sets up an intriguing contest between the Boks’ power and New Zealand’s attacking threat.
All Blacks star opens door to South African rugby move
Briefly News previously reported that All Blacks prop Ethan de Groot is considering a temporary move to South African rugby before the 2027 World Cup. The New Zealand forward has explained why he believes a season facing South Africa’s powerful packs could benefit his game.
De Groot has committed his future to New Zealand Rugby, but his comments have opened up an intriguing possibility ahead of the World Cup.
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Source: Briefly News
