South Africa has produced a masterclass to thrash New Zealand 35-7 in their Rugby World Cup warm-up fixture at Twickenham, handing the All Blacks a record loss.
Never in their proud history had the All Blacks lost by such a large margin.
The Springboks’ performance served as a warning to rivals ahead of their Rugby World Cup title defence in France.
They scored five tries through captain Siya Kolisi, winger Kurt-Lee Arendse, hookers Malcolm Marx and Bongi Mbonambi, and flanker Kwagga Smith.
The All Blacks played the entire second half with 14 players after lock Scott Barrett received a second yellow card, equating to a red, as they had no answer to the Springboks’ intensity and set-piece domination.
Replacement back Cam Roigard got a consolation try for the All Blacks but coach Ian Foster will be concerned at how his first-choice selection was second best in every facet of the match.
They play their Rugby World Cup opener against France in Paris on September 9 AEST.
“We are really disappointed with how we performed, but a lot of credit must go to how the Springboks played,” All Blacks captain Sam Cane said.
“They were dominant in all facets and our discipline really hurt us.
“Their ability to dominate the scrum, maul and lineout made it hard for us to get anything going.
