After a series that had raised genuine questions about South Africa's grip on world rugby, the third Test delivered a definitive answer. A second-half display that left the All Blacks — despite their threat throughout the series — well beaten settled the argument. The final scoreline of 29-24 flatters New Zealand, whose late consolation try tightened a margin that wasn't as close as the numbers suggest. Meagher's match report frames the win as more than a series result: it's a restatement of the Boks' position at the top of the game, and a strong early signal for 2027 World Cup favouritism.
AnalysisSpringboksThe Guardian Rugby
Springboks silence the doubters — series lead secured over All Blacks
South Africa's second-half dominance in the third Test ended the All Blacks' hopes of a series win and, according to Meagher, reasserted the Boks as the world's benchmark side — with World Cup implications already in the air.
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