Springboks to play two tests in New Zealand next year

World champions South Africa will play two away tests against greatest rivals New Zealand in 2025, SA Rugby confirmed on Wednesday.

The Rugby Championship matches are set for September 6 and 13 at venues to be announced, and will offer the Springboks a chance to extend a four-test winning run against the All Blacks.

After losing a 2023 Rugby Championship match in Auckland, South Africa won a World Cup warm-up in London and the World Cup final against New Zealand in Paris last year.

The successful streak by the Springboks continued in the 2024 Rugby Championship with victories in Johannesburg and Cape Town.

Having beaten Scotland, England and Wales on a three-match tour of Britain this month, the Rugby World Cup title-holders take a break until next July when they host Italy in a two-test series.

Meanwhile, Springboks head coach Rassie Erasmus entered hospital on Wednesday for a shoulder operation and hopes to be released this weekend.

TEST DATES

July 5, 12: Italy, 19: Georgia, all home

August 16, 23: Australia, both home

September 6, 13: New Zealand, both away; 27: Argentina, home

October 4: Argentina, away

November Europe tour - opponents, dates to be announced