Jerry Flannery has spelled out how the Springboks are treating the Nations Championship's European leg as a dry run for Australia 2025 — specifically the challenge of assembling a squad mid-club-season and hitting the ground running with minimal prep time together. The conditions mirror a World Cup environment closely enough that the coaching staff are using the tournament to stress-test their systems under pressure. On the Final qualification equation, Flannery is clear: the Boks aren't going into games hunting bonus points from the first whistle. Win the game first, then push for extras in the final 20 if the scoreboard allows. It's a pragmatic stance given the calibre of opposition — Italy, France, and Ireland represent a significantly harder draw than New Zealand's remaining schedule, meaning the Boks may need to be sharper on points differential if both teams go unbeaten.
Nations Championship as RWC rehearsal: Flannery explains the Boks' dual agenda
Flannery frames the Nations Championship European tour as a World Cup dress rehearsal, while outlining a win-first, bonus-points-second approach as the Boks navigate a tougher draw than the All Blacks.
Boks remain top but All Blacks close gap to 2.90 points after Nations Championship opener
South Africa stay top of the World Rugby Men's Rankings at 93.94 points but New Zealand have cut the gap to 2.90 after beating France, while Scotland climb to equal their all-time high of fifth following a record 47-38 win over Argentina in Córdoba.
James Doleman to referee South Africa v England as World Rugby confirms Nations Championship officials
James Doleman will referee South Africa v England at Ellis Park on 4 July, with Andrew Brace and Pierre Brousset as assistants, as World Rugby confirms the full list of officials for the July leg of the 2026 Nations Championship.
Fainga'anuku's broken leg rules him out of Nations Championship and clouds Springbok series availability
Leicester Fainga'anuku faces 10 to 12 weeks out after fracturing his fibula in the Crusaders' semi-final defeat to the Chiefs, ruling him out of the Nations Championship and casting doubt over his availability for the opening Tests against the Springboks.
Umaga wants the All Blacks feared again — and Rennie's the man to do it
Umaga admits the All Blacks have lost their shine and outlines how Rennie's leadership culture — and Savea's role as a players' voice — aims to restore it ahead of a season that ends with four Tests against the Springboks.
Barrett ruled out five months as back surgery wrecks All Blacks captaincy and Springboks tour plans
Scott Barrett requires back surgery and is ruled out for five months, missing the Nations Championship and the All Blacks' four-Test tour of South Africa, leaving Dave Rennie without his captain for the entire upcoming international programme.