The Rugby’s Greatest Rivalry series between the Springboks and the All Blacks is gearing up to be a nail-biter with a potential 2-2 deadlock looming, reminiscent of the unresolved 2017 series between the British & Irish Lions and New Zealand. With matches slated in both South Africa and Baltimore, USA, the even split has stirred the pot on how a tie should be resolved. Yusuf Jackson, SA Rugby's general manager of operations, has declared that there will definitely be a winner this time around. "There will be a tiebreaker in the event the series is drawn, and there will be an ultimate winner," Jackson affirmed, noting that the specifics of the tiebreaker—whether it be extra-time or sudden death—are still under consideration.
This announcement has sparked a mix of excitement and scepticism among former Springbok players. On the Boks Unpacked podcast, Hanyani Shimange expressed enthusiasm about the dramatic potential. "It would be the greatest tour of all time if it gets down to 2-2," he proclaimed. Contrastingly, Schalk Burger showed reservations, particularly about the series potentially being decided by a kicking competition. "I thought these tours just end in a drawn series, doesn’t it? Like they’re going to have a tiebreaker, like a goal kick-off," Burger said, clearly puzzled by the new format.
"Please no,"
Jean de Villiers chimed in, echoing the sentiment of many purists who prefer traditional outcomes to matches.Burger, still grappling with the concept, suggested a more conventional approach if extra time doesn't break the deadlock. "If there are no points in the extra time, they should just share the series at two all. I mean, we can’t go to a goal kick out or whatever."
However, De Villiers offered a controversial take, proposing that New Zealand be awarded the series if it ends in a tie, considering the disproportionate number of games played in South Africa. "Three games in South Africa, one in Baltimore, if it goes to 2-2, it’s almost like the victory needs to go to New Zealand because of the home ground advantage that South Africa gets," he argued, sparking a light-hearted rebuttal from his peers.
"You are feeling very kind today," Shimange retorted, while Burger humorously inquired, "Is it like retaining the Ashes then?"
As the debate continues, the world of rugby eagerly awaits the final decision on how this epic series will conclude. Regardless of the outcome, the series promises to deliver unforgettable moments and heated discussions among fans and legends alike.