Botha On Springboks vs All Blacks Rivalry: “You Always Measure Yourself Against Them”

Few rivalries in world sport carry the history, intensity and global appeal of the Springboks versus the All Blacks.

For Springbok legend Bakkies Botha, the fixture has always represented the ultimate test in rugby — a contest built on generations of excellence, mutual respect and unforgettable battles.

Speaking about what makes the rivalry so special, Botha believes its status has been earned through decades of consistently outstanding performances from both nations.

“From being a small kid, or whenever you’re talking to anybody, especially a youngster who starts watching rugby, for me also, when I began watching Test rugby, it was the All Blacks and the Springboks,” said Botha.

He attributes the rivalry’s enduring appeal to the rich history shared between the two rugby powerhouses.

“It’s more about the rich history, and that is what brings these two teams together,” he added.

That passion has now been passed on to the next generation. Botha shared a personal story about his son, highlighting how deeply the rivalry continues to resonate with rugby supporters.

“My son is in his first year at varsity, and I asked him what is on his bucket list. He said, ‘Dad, I want to watch the All Blacks against the Springboks in Cape Town,'” said Botha, who, along with Victor Matfield, started together 63 times in Test rugby, forming the most decorated locking combination in Springbok history (winning the 2007 World Cup, 2009 British & Irish Lions series, and multiple Tri-Nations titles).

Having transitioned from one of the sport’s fiercest competitors to a supporter in the stands, Botha says he has developed an even greater appreciation for the passion of South African rugby fans.

“Now that I am in the audience with my flag and my boys next to me, I realise how fanatical our people in South Africa are about Springbok rugby, firstly, and then also the All Blacks and Springboks clash, which is just next level,” said Botha with characteristic exuberance.

With the Greatest Rivalry Series heading to South Africa, Botha believes the occasion will have a significant impact on both the country and the sport.

“This Greatest Rivalry Series coming to South Africa will be massive for the country and for the game of rugby,” said the 2007 Rugby World Cup winner.

He also praised the current era of Springbok rugby under head coach Rassie Erasmus.

“It’s amazing to be a Springbok fan these last couple of years because Rassie has been doing amazing things,” said the legendary lock.

When asked whether there was a particular All Black he regarded as his greatest rival, Botha responded with characteristic humour.

“Lots of people ask who is the best or most physical guy I played against and I always say, ‘He is not born yet,’ so I’m still waiting for him,” joked the legendary hard man.

However, he acknowledged the consistently physical nature of New Zealand teams throughout his career, singling out former All Blacks forward Brad Thorn as one of the toughest opponents he faced.

“The All Blacks were always physical to play against, like Brad Thorn, who was a tough opponent, but the rules and regulations have changed so much since the time I finished.”

Despite the Springboks’ recent dominance on the world stage, Botha insists New Zealand remains the benchmark by which every South African team measures itself.

“Our greatest rivals will still be the All Blacks. You always measure yourself against them,” he said.

Known throughout his career for his uncompromising physicality, Botha relished the challenge of testing himself against the very best players in world rugby.

“The role I played was a more physical one, and you want to measure yourself against the best,” added Botha, who formed one of rugby’s greatest second-row partnerships with Victor Matfield.

For Botha, the Springboks-All Blacks rivalry transcends wins and losses. It is a contest built on history, respect and the relentless pursuit of excellence — qualities that continue to captivate rugby fans around the world and ensure it remains the greatest rivalry in the sport.