5 great Springbok / England Tests of the pro era

It is a rivalry which was spawned in 1906 and has grown in magnitude ever since. Today, an England vs South Africa fixture is held in high esteem around the world, as is the blood, sweat and tears which always characterises the contest. Saturday’s Test has the potential to be one of the games of the season between two teams brimming with talent who last faced each other just over two years ago in the 2019 RWC final in Japan. 

We take a look at five big Springbok/England clashes of the professional era. 

2002 – England vs SA at Twickenham 

This turned out to be one of the most one-sided but brutal Tests between the two nations. The Springboks were in a dark place after a string of disappointing losses and their frustrations boiled over on the pitch as skulduggery (particularly from Springbok captain Corne Krige, who was feeling the pressure more than most) grew as England ran away with the score: 

2007 – RWC, Pool A – SA vs England 

Named the most enjoyable game of his career by celebrated Springboks scrumhalf Fourie du Preez, the Springboks and England battled it out in the first of two meetings during that particular tournament. John Smit’s men were well-drilled, fit and clinical while England, themselves boasting a strong squad of players, were unable to get the best of the men in green. 

2007 – RWC Final – SA vs England 

As expected, things were much more competitive the second time the nations met in the World Cup. What transpired was a wonderful game of rugby with a fierce battle up front and the score being decided from the boots of the kickers. 

2018 – SA vs England, Ellis Park, Johannesburg 

A high-scoring game on the Highveld. The occasion marked the first game of Rassie Erasmus being in charge as head coach and was played at a frenetic tempo with both teams looking like they could score from anywhere. Much to the delight of the fans, the game went down to the wire. 

2019 – SA vs England, RWC Final – Japan 

After the manner in which Eddie Jones’ England despatched the mighty All Blacks in the semi-final, few gave the Boks a chance in this clash. However, what Siya Kolisi and co. brought was beyond anyone’s imagining. With a colossal forward effort and brilliant skills from the backs, the Springboks crushed a capable but bewildered England to claim their third RWC title.