All Blacks’ Bulls Win Gives Springboks Plenty to Think About Before First Test

• The All Blacks produced another attacking masterclass in Pretoria, but their latest performance may have offered the Springboks valuable clues
• New Zealand’s biggest strength was again on display as the Bulls struggled to contain their rapid attacking combinations
• With the first Test approaching, South Africa now have plenty of footage showing exactly how the visitors want to play

The All Blacks’ 50–19 demolition of the Bulls at Loftus Versfeld on Saturday, 15 August 2026, may have given the Springboks exactly what they wanted: another detailed look at New Zealand’s attacking approach.

Josh Moorby and Codie Taylor both scored twice, while Leroy Carter also crossed twice as the visitors repeatedly punished gaps in the Bulls defence.

IOL’s Mike Greenaway highlighted New Zealand’s “fast-paced, slick offloading game”, which has troubled South Africa’s URC sides during the tour.

Springboks have plenty to study

The Bulls managed three tries through Ruan Vermaak, Stravino Jacobs and Marcell Coetzee, but they could not consistently disrupt New Zealand’s rhythm. That will be particularly relevant for the Springboks, who have watched the All Blacks face the Sharks, Stormers and Bulls before their opening Test.

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Johan Ackermann spots all Blacks weakness after Bulls’ 50–19 defeat ahead of Springboks Test

Greenaway noted that South Africa are “another proposition altogether” and have had the advantage of observing New Zealand before the series begins.

The real test is still coming

New Zealand have demonstrated their attacking threat. The Springboks now know what is coming. The unanswered question is whether the same approach will work against South Africa when the intensity rises and Test rugby begins.

Johan Ackermann spots All Blacks weakness before Springboks test

Briefly News previously reported that Johan Ackermann had identified a potential weakness in the All Blacks after their 50–19 victory over the Bulls at Loftus Versfeld.

The Bulls coach believes New Zealand may not enjoy the same freedom against a more experienced, match-ready Springboks side. His assessment also offers South Africa a clue about where opportunities could emerge.

Ackermann's comments come just days before the rivals meet at Ellis Park, with the Springboks potentially using lessons from the Bulls' heavy defeat to challenge New Zealand's attacking approach.

Source: Briefly News