![Gregor Paul: Springboks add to list of desperate, misguided bruisers](/pf/resources/images/placeholders/placeholder_l.png?d=808)
Gregor Paul: Springboks add to list of desperate, misguided bruisers
It's time for everyone hoping to knock the All Blacks off their perch to try something else
It's time for everyone hoping to knock the All Blacks off their perch to try something else
At the start of the professional era in 1996, when it was guaranteed we'd start playing South Africa at least twice a year, some people said such regular contests would diminish the excitement.
South Africa appear to be the clear and present danger but there is a more basic threat nearer to home that has potential to bite New Zealand rugby harder.
It must be terrifying for rugby's chasing pack that the All Blacks can dust off the Springboks these days without Richie McCaw, Dan Carter or Israel Dagg.
Dane Coles made the comment during the week that he quite likes the rough stuff, legal or otherwise.
You know the bloke. Tall, blond, athletic, standing in the middle of the park waving his arms like an Italian traffic controller.
Dane Coles feels he owes a debt of gratitude to All Blacks hooker rival Andrew Hore.
Down in the Cape when they yarn about some of the rugby characters in Western Province, the Etzebeth surname gets a regular recall.
Dane Coles, this is your time, writes Wynne Gray. The 26-year-old will step into the All Black spotlight on Saturday in the middle of the front row.
Every international team have their strengths but the Springboks are a particularly physical side - it's been the same since year dot, writes Murray Mexted.
Who has the better recent record, the All Blacks or the Springboks?
The Springboks have arrived in Auckland fresh from their groundbreaking victory over Australia and have quickly laid on the charm.
His physical commitment is unquestioned - but it's mental energy that sets the inspirational All Black captain apart.
Dunedin turned up the heaters in the Forsyth Barr Stadium last night as the All Blacks beat the Springboks 21-11 in front of a sellout crowd.
Every year there is an All Black guarantee. At least there has been since the start of Super rugby in 1996.
The All Blacks and Ireland will be led next month by men who have each played more than a 100 tests.