Where to Watch New Zealand Vs South Africa?
by Srinithi
Updated Jul 17, 2023
Rugby
Rugby union, a physically intense and dynamic team sport, originated at Rugby School in the 19th century. The game revolves around running with an oval-shaped ball and is played between two teams of 15 players each on a rectangular field known as a pitch. The objective is to score points by carrying the ball over the opponent's goal line or kicking it between the H-shaped goalposts.
As a widely popular sport, rugby union attracts players of diverse backgrounds and is enjoyed by millions worldwide. World Rugby, the governing body established in 1886, oversees the sport and boasts 101 full member countries and 18 associate members. In 1995, rugby union transitioned from an amateur sport to a professional one, marking a significant milestone in its history.
Rugby union's influence expanded beyond its origins in Great Britain and Ireland, with nations like Australia, New Zealand, South Africa, and France emerging as prominent participants. The sport has a strong following in the British Isles, France, Oceania, Southern Africa, Argentina, and several other countries. Notably, rugby union holds national sport status in countries such as Fiji, Georgia, Madagascar, New Zealand, Samoa, Tonga, and Wales.
International rugby matches date back to 1871 when Scotland and England faced off in the inaugural game. The Rugby World Cup, launched in 1987 and held every four years, is a pinnacle event in the sport. Additional prominent competitions include the Six Nations Championship in Europe and The Rugby Championship in the Southern Hemisphere, which take place annually.
At the club and provincial levels, various prestigious competitions exist, such as the Premiership in England, the Top 14 in France, the Bunnings NPC in New Zealand, the League One in Japan, and the Currie Cup in South Africa. Transnational club tournaments like the United Rugby Championship, European Rugby Champions Cup, and Super Rugby Pacific provide thrilling encounters between teams from different regions.
With its rich history, passionate fanbase, and exhilarating matches, rugby union continues to captivate players and spectators alike, showcasing the physicality, skill, and camaraderie that define this remarkable sport.
Where to Watch New Zealand vs South Africa?
The highly anticipated match between New Zealand and South Africa broadcasted on various platforms in different countries. In New Zealand, the game is streamed on Sky Sport Now, which provides a 7-day free trial for new users.
For viewers in South Africa, the game will be available on SuperSport, while in Australia, it can be watched on Stan Sport. Rugby enthusiasts in the UK can catch the action on Sky Sports, and those in the US can tune in on FloRugby.
These diverse broadcasting options ensure that fans around the world have the opportunity to enjoy the thrilling match between New Zealand and South Africa, regardless of their geographical location.
New Zealand vs South Africa
In another impressive display, the New Zealand rugby team showcased their dominance with a commanding 35-20 victory over South Africa at Auckland's Mt Smart Stadium. The All Blacks started the game with a relentless attacking style of rugby, combining it with their trademark physicality. They wasted no time in asserting their dominance, scoring early tries through Aaron Smith and Shannon Frizell. As the game progressed, late scores from Will Jordan and Richie Mo'unga sealed their comprehensive victory.
Despite facing a resilient South African team, the All Blacks maintained their momentum throughout the match. The world champions demonstrated their ability to adapt and recover, even in challenging situations. While South Africa managed to score second-half tries through Malcolm Marx, Cheslin Kolbe, and Kwagga Smith, it was not enough to overcome the early onslaught from the All Blacks.
This victory has further solidified New Zealand's position as a force to be reckoned with in the Rugby Championship, placing them in a promising position to claim the championship trophy.
The All Blacks have made a statement in this World Cup year, exhibiting their exceptional skills and teamwork, as well as their unwavering determination to succeed. With two consecutive wins in the tournament, including a dominant performance against Argentina in the previous week, the All Blacks have set a strong foundation for their future matches.
Teams and Positions in Rugby
In a game of rugby union, each team starts with 15 players on the field and can have seven or eight substitutes. The players are divided into two groups: the forwards and the backs.
The forwards have the primary responsibility of gaining and retaining possession of the ball. They play a crucial role in tackling and rucking opposing players. The forward positions include the front row, consisting of two props and a hooker, who support each other in scrums and line-outs. The second row comprises two locks, known for their line-out jumping skills, and they also provide strength in scrums.
The back row consists of two flankers and a number 8. The flankers focus on winning possession and are agile on the field, while the number 8 controls the ball after the scrum and acts as a link between the forwards and backs during attacks.
The backs, on the other hand, are responsible for creating and converting point-scoring opportunities. They are generally smaller, faster, and more agile than the forwards. The half-backs, consisting of the scrum-half and fly-half, play crucial roles in coordinating the team's performance. The scrum-half acts as a link between the forwards and backs, feeding the ball to the fly-half, who orchestrates the team's game plan.
The three-quarters include the two centres and two wings, with the centres focusing on tackling and breaching opposition defenses, while the wings use their speed to finish off moves and score tries. The full-back is positioned behind the backline, serving as the last line of defense and excelling in catching kicks and having a good kicking game.
These different positions and roles in rugby union create a dynamic and strategic game, where teamwork and individual skills combine to form an exciting and challenging sport.
Where To Watch New Zealand Vs South Africa-FAQ
In New Zealand, the game is available on Sky Sport Now with a 7-day free trial. South African viewers can watch it on SuperSport, Australian viewers on Stan Sport, UK viewers on Sky Sports, and US viewers on FloRugby.
Rugby union originated at Rugby School in the 19th century and has evolved into a physically intense team sport played with an oval-shaped ball. It gained popularity worldwide and transitioned to a professional sport in 1995.
Rugby teams consist of 15 players divided into forwards and backs. Forwards focus on gaining and retaining possession and include front row players (props and hooker), second row players (locks), and back row players (flankers and number 8). Backs create scoring opportunities and consist of half-backs (scrum-half and fly-half), three-quarters (centres and wings), and a full-back.
Forwards aim to gain possession through physical play, contributing to scrums, line-outs, and rucks. Backs, known for their agility, focus on creating scoring opportunities, utilizing superior kicking and ball-handling skills. Half-backs coordinate the team's performance, while three-quarters contribute to both defense and attack. The full-back serves as the last line of defense.
The Rugby World Cup, held every four years, is a major tournament in rugby union. Other notable competitions include the Six Nations Championship in Europe and The Rugby Championship in the Southern Hemisphere. Club and provincial competitions, such as the Premiership in England and Super Rugby Pacific, showcase top-level club rugby.