The All Blacks were greeted with a heartfelt reception in Cape Town, as fans congregated at DHL Stadium, eager to catch a glimpse of the New Zealand team ahead of the highly awaited Rugby’s Greatest Rivalry series in South Africa.
For head coach Dave Rennie, this enthusiastic welcome highlighted the substantial support the All Blacks receive in South Africa, particularly in Cape Town, despite being the visiting team.
“It’s amazing!” Rennie remarked. “The players often mention the backing that all the Super Rugby teams have here and how the All Blacks are viewed. So, starting our campaign in Cape Town is indeed special.”
As New Zealand prepares for an extended visit to South Africa, Rennie emphasized the importance of balancing training, match duties, and allowing players to experience the local culture.
“It’s a juggling act on a rather tight timeline,” he clarified. “There are times when one group trains while another plays on the same day.”
Rennie underscored the significance of granting players breaks from rugby during their lengthy visit.
“We must immerse ourselves in the local culture and tackle the challenges head-on. Taking breaks from rugby is essential, so we’ll ensure there’s time to unwind.”
The All Blacks split into three groups upon arriving in South Africa, with most players now acclimated.
“Everyone is here except Ardie (Savea),” Rennie noted, adding that the last group arrived Friday morning.
Savea’s late arrival was due to changes in travel plans following disruptions in the Gulf region. The team had originally planned to transit through Dubai but had to modify their route.
“We were supposed to fly in via Dubai, but due to various situations in the Gulf, alterations were needed,” Rennie detailed. “We managed to coordinate it—one group came through Hong Kong, another via Singapore, and the last through Perth.”
Although Savea will miss the upcoming match against the Sharks, Rennie confirmed that the key loose forward will be ready for the first Test.
“Ardie will arrive just after the Sharks game,” Rennie added.
“He’ll certainly be prepared for the first Test. He has been under substantial pressure, training and playing continuously since January 2025, which totals nearly 18 months of competitive rugby.”
The choice to allow Savea some time off was made considering his workload. Rennie noted that the 32-year-old was hesitant to rest during the last series, prompting the All Blacks to adjust his schedule this time around.
“We wanted him to take some time off, which he was reluctant to do during the previous series,” Rennie mentioned, referring to the inaugural Nations Championship.
Consequently, Savea will be absent from matches against the Stormers and the Bulls before the first Test. He will arrive in South Africa in plenty of time to prepare for the opening clash.
“He will be in South Africa 10 days prior to the Test,” Rennie confirmed.
As the All Blacks gear up for a taxing campaign in South Africa, Rennie aims to strike a healthy balance between thorough preparation and safeguarding the players’ physical and mental well-being.
For now, the New Zealand camp seems ready to embrace the challenges ahead, drawing motivation from the warm reception they received in Cape Town.
