Former New Zealand loose forward Taine Randell has described Saturday's third Greatest Rivalry clash at FNB Stadium as potentially the most significant Test in the careers of many current players. The series stands level after two thrilling encounters, with the All Blacks claiming a 33-16 victory at Ellis Park before the Springboks responded with a 33-26 win in Cape Town.
Randell, who earned 51 caps between 1997 and 2001, told The Platform NZ podcast that the decider would come down to determination rather than tactical shifts. "There's going to be no change in styles," he said. "It's just going to be a change of will and determination. Well, not a change; it's going to be whose will and determination."
The Springboks have lost Damian Willemse to a hamstring injury this week, whilst the All Blacks have emerged from the opening two Tests without significant casualties. New Zealand's decision to remain in Cape Town until Wednesday before travelling to altitude has raised eyebrows, departing from conventional preparation strategies for matches in Johannesburg. The Springboks have played only three times at the 90,000-capacity venue, losing twice to the All Blacks during an era of New Zealand dominance. Saturday's victor will take control of the series ahead of the final Test in Baltimore, where a losing side can only salvage a draw.