South African men’s rugby captain Siya Kolisi says the four-Test home series against New Zealand in September 2026 will be “huge” for the Springboks and for the franchise team facing the Kiwis.
SA Rugby announced on Thursday that the All Blacks will travel to South Africa in a major series for the first time in 30 years, in what is billed as rugby’s biggest rivalry. The Boks will return the favor in 2030 and travel to New Zealand for the first time in their professional career.
Kolisi, who led the Boks to a second successive World Cup appearance, told the SA Rugby website: “This is a big deal and something this generation will never forget.
“These tours are all things we’ve heard of before, so to experience something like a Lions tour for the first time is incredible for us as a group.
“I have no doubt that Springbok fans are looking forward to welcoming All Blacks fans to South Africa. Let’s get excited. Let’s cheer, South Africans, this is our chance to show the world once again who we are and what we are about. We really can’t wait for it.”
All Blacks captain Scott Barrett said: “This is a great rivalry and one based on mutual respect, but for 80 minutes these two teams put everything on the line every time they play.
“The intensity is just there and it’s shaping up to be a great tour. The format is going to be great and there’s going to be a lot of excited fans watching from home and traveling with us. We’re looking forward to it.”
Tour dates for rugby’s biggest rivals
Friday 7th August: DHL Stormers vs. New Zealand, DHL Stadium, Cape Town
Tuesday 11th August: Hollywoodbets Sharks vs. Hollywoodbets Kings Park, Durban, New Zealand
Saturday 15th August: Vodacom Bulls vs New Zealand, Loftus Versfeld in Pretoria
Saturday 22nd August: First Test – South Africa vs New Zealand, Ellis Park, Johannesburg
Tuesday 25th August: Lions vs New Zealand at Ellis Park, Johannesburg
Saturday 29th August: 2nd Test – South Africa vs New Zealand, DHL Stadium, Cape Town
Saturday 5th September: 3rd Test – South Africa vs New Zealand, FNB Stadium, Johannesburg
Saturday 12th September: 4th Test – South Africa vs New Zealand (venue to be determined)