South Africa has strengthened its position at the top of world rugby after beating New Zealand 3-1 in their four-Test series.
The Springboks lost the opening match in Johannesburg. However, they responded by winning the next three Tests.
They completed the series with a 43-28 victory in Baltimore, United States.
The result provides another boost for the back-to-back world champions as attention begins to turn towards next year’s Rugby World Cup in Australia.
Springboks respond after opening defeat
South Africa entered the series as the world’s top-ranked side.
However, New Zealand produced an impressive start by winning the opening Test 33-16 at Ellis Park.
The Springboks then recovered. Their powerful forwards played a major role as the series progressed.
BBC Sport highlighted South Africa’s scrum and maul as key strengths during the comeback. That physical approach has also been central to the team’s recent World Cup success.
South Africa eventually won three consecutive matches to secure the series.
South Africa shows its strength
The Springboks have developed their attacking game in recent years.
However, their traditional strengths remain important.
South Africa can rely on its forwards, kicking game and set pieces. At the same time, the team has shown it can play a more expansive style when needed.
Several experienced players from the country’s back-to-back World Cup-winning teams also remain regular starters.
They include Siya Kolisi, Eben Etzebeth, Pieter-Steph du Toit, Malcolm Marx, Damian de Allende and Cheslin Kolbe.
That experience could prove important when South Africa attempts to win an unprecedented third consecutive Rugby World Cup title next year.
New Zealand shows signs of improvement
Despite losing the series, New Zealand also produced encouraging moments.
The All Blacks scored four or more tries in each of the three Tests played in South Africa.
Their opening victory at Ellis Park also showed they remain capable of challenging the world champions.
Richie Mo’unga returned for the final match in Baltimore. It was his first Test appearance since the 2023 Rugby World Cup final.
New Zealand will now have another year to develop before the 2027 World Cup.
World Cup challenge comes next
South Africa will enter the build-up to the tournament as one of the leading contenders.
France, New Zealand, Ireland and other major rugby nations will also be looking to challenge the Springboks.
For now, though, South Africa remains at the top of the rankings.
A 3-1 series victory over one of rugby’s traditional powers has strengthened that position ahead of another major World Cup campaign.