New Zealand boost World Cup hopes with dominant Rugby Championship win over South Africa

New Zealand were in imperious form as they made it two wins from two in the 2023 Rugby Championship with a stunning 35-20 victory over South Africa to underline their World Cup credentials. The All Blacks carried on where they left off against Argentina last week and looked back to their brilliant best at times in Auckland to move top of the table with just one round of fixtures remaining. Ad The win puts them on the verge of a ninth Rugby Championship triumph in 11 years but more importantly, gives them extra momentum approaching the World Cup in September.

RugbyFixtures for the new-look Premiership Rugby Cup confirmed including live games on TNT SportsYESTERDAY AT 07:35 «We got what we expected,» New Zealand captain Sam Cane said. «It's always physical and an awesome Test match. First time some of us have played at Mount Smart.

»We really look forward to these matches. So much history. Reigning world champions and we knew it would be a good test to see where we're at as a team." Like last week, it was a lightning start that paved the way to victory for the hosts.

With a penalty advantage, Beauden Barrett passed long to Will Jordan, who cut through the Springbok defence with ease before setting up scrum-half Aaron Smith for the opening try with less than five minutes on the clock. A Richie Mo’unga penalty made it 10-0 before the second try arrived in the 15th minute. Beauden Barrett and Jordan were once again instrumental as the All Blacks brilliantly held onto possession under immense pressure.