New Zealand's preparations for their August tour to South Africa have been marked by a deliberate shift towards size and physicality in the pack, with lock-cum-flanker Tupou Vaa'i emerging as a key figure in Dave Rennie's plans.
Vaa'i featured in two of the All Blacks' three Nations Championship fixtures, playing 160 minutes across lock and blindside flanker. His statistical output during that window drew attention for its similarity to Pieter-Steph du Toit's contributions for the Springboks. Vaa'i recorded 14 line-out takes and three steals, matching Du Toit's steal count despite playing 80 fewer minutes. He also registered 50 tackles, seven more than Du Toit, though the Springbok forward's 50 carries and two tries underlined his broader attacking threat.
Rennie's eye on South Africa
Sir John Kirwan, speaking on the Rivals podcast, suggested the All Blacks' recent selection patterns reflected forward planning for the Springbok series. Rennie's decision to deploy Vaa'i at blindside flanker alongside Patrick Tuipulotu at lock was interpreted as an attempt to beef up an already substantial pack. Kirwan noted that matching the world champions' physicality would be essential if New Zealand were to compete in the four-Test series.
The former All Black emphasised the challenge of halting the Springboks' momentum at the advantage line, referencing their recent dominance against Wales. He praised Vaa'i's intelligence and versatility, highlighting the lock's role as a lineout caller and his understated enforcer qualities.
Rivalry series looms
The August tour will provide the sternest examination yet of Rennie's tenure, which began earlier this year following Scott Robertson's dismissal. New Zealand have won successive matches against France, Italy and Ireland, but the Springboks represent a different order of challenge. The world champions have expanded their game under Rassie Erasmus whilst retaining their traditional strengths in the set-piece, maul and kicking game.
Whether Vaa'i's work rate and adaptability can match Du Toit's influence across four Tests will be among the series' defining subplots. The All Blacks' ability to match South Africa's physicality up front may ultimately determine the outcome of rugby's greatest rivalry.