All Blacks Legends Hail Springboks as a Step Ahead of Everyone After Baltimore Win
- Former All Blacks stars have given a revealing assessment of South Africa’s latest victory over New Zealand
- The Springboks’ ability to respond under pressure was singled out after another commanding display
- One former All Black also pointed to an area where New Zealand must improve after the series defeat
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Former All Blacks stars Mils Muliaina, Aaron Cruden and John Afoa have praised the Springboks after South Africa completed a 3-1 series victory over New Zealand in Baltimore on Saturday, 12 September 2026.
The Springboks won 43-28 at M&T Bank Stadium to claim the inaugural Rugby’s Greatest Rivalry series. The result also gave South Africa three consecutive victories over New Zealand during the four-Test contest.
Speaking on Sky Sport’s The Breakdown, former All Blacks captain Muliaina said South Africa had established themselves ahead of their rivals.
According to SA Rugby Magazine, Muliaina said:
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“They’re a step ahead of everyone. They’re comfortable being uncomfortable.”
He explained that the Springboks were capable of absorbing pressure before finding ways to regain control.
“They’ve got so many weapons to do it. Is it their scrum? Is it their high ball? Is it their dominant carries?” Muliaina said.
Aaron Cruden identifies Springboks’ key strength
Cruden also acknowledged that New Zealand had made progress under coach Dave Rennie but said South Africa had been more effective when opportunities appeared.
“The uncomfortable fact is South Africa were just better,” Cruden said.
He added that the Springboks “absolutely pounced on any error” and transitioned effectively when possession changed hands.
Cruden said New Zealand now had a clearer understanding of the challenge ahead.
“We now know exactly what we’re chasing. We’ve got to put the plans in place to make sure we are closing that gap,” he said.
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John Afoa points to All Blacks leadership issue
Afoa focused on leadership after the defeat, suggesting New Zealand lacked experienced figures who could take control in difficult moments.
“There’s a real leadership gap,” the former prop said.
He contrasted that with the Springboks, pointing to their combination of experienced players and match-winning performers.
“The Springboks, they’ve got maybe five of them with the Man of the Match awards and 100 Test caps in the backline,” Afoa said.
The Baltimore victory capped a 3-1 series win for South Africa and further underlined the gap the All Blacks must close before their next major meeting with the world champions.
Richie Mo’unga makes honest Springboks admission after Baltimore
Briefly News previously reported that All Blacks flyhalf Richie Mo’unga opened up about South Africa’s development since the 2023 Rugby World Cup final.
The 32-year-old, who returned to Test rugby after 1,050 days away, described the Springboks as a “complete team” following their 43-28 victory in Baltimore. He also highlighted an area New Zealand will need to improve as the All Blacks attempt to close the gap before the 2027 World Cup.
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Source: Briefly News
