Never mind the Tri-Nations, there's a far more attractive cherry to be plucked from the aftermath of this clash.
This is not only the second of the nine Tri-Nations matches this year, it is also a straight head-to-head winner-takes-all play-off for number one spot in the IRB rankings. The two undisputed heavyweights of world rugby clashing. Oh yes! [Preview]
It is a two test series between the two best sides in the world. On one side, we have the Lions conquerors and World Champions, South Africa. On the other, we have the defending Tri Nations champions and the IRB's number one ranked side, New Zealand. [Preview]
South Africa: Francois Steyn, JP Pietersen, Jaque Fourie, Jean de Villiers, Bryan Habana, Ruan Pieenar, Fourie du Preez, Pierre Spies, Juan Smith, Heinrich Brussow, Victor Matfield, Bakkies Botha, John Smit (captain), Bismarck du Plessis, Tendai Mtawarira.
Reserves: Chiliboy Ralepelle, Jannie du Plessis, Danie Rossouw, Ryan Kankowski, Ricky Januarie, Morne Steyn, Wynand Olivier
New Zealand: Mils Muliaina, Joe Rokocoko, Conrad Smith, Ma'a Nonu, Sitiveni Sivivatu, Stephen Donald, Brendon Leonard, Rodney So'oialo, Richie McCaw (captain), Jerome Kaino, Isaac Ross, Brad Thorn, Neemia Tialata, Andrew Hore, Tony Woodcock.
Reserves: Keven Mealamu, Owen Franks, Jason Eaton, Kieran Read, Piri Weepu, Luke McAlister, Cory Jane
Referee: Alain Rolland (Ireland)
From here in the US, I've been a big fan of All Blacks ever since I started to watch rugby games around last year. Aside from football, rugby is what I watch the most nowadays.
ReplyDeleteImagine how happy I was when NZ won the championship. Now I'm closely watching the local rugby league clubs here.