Tiebreaker mechanism to be confirmed for four-Test Springbok-All Blacks series
A winner will be determined if the upcoming four-Test series between the Springboks and All Blacks ends level at 2-2, with SA Rugby's General Manager of Operations, Yusuf Jackson, confirming that tiebreak options are actively being explored.
Both teams have already agreed that sharing the series is not an acceptable outcome — a stance that distinguishes this contest from the 2017 Lions series, which ended in a 1-1 draw.
"The question we asked both teams was, 'Are we happy to shake hands in Baltimore and share the trophy?' Both were aligned. 'No, we want a winner'," Jackson told SA Rugby Magazine.
Extra time and sudden death are among the mechanisms under consideration, with Jackson emphasising that player welfare and match integrity are central to the deliberations. A fifth match is not on the table due to scheduling constraints.
"The fourth Test will deliver a series result, if we go there," Jackson confirmed.
The series opens at Ellis Park on August 22, moves to Cape Town the following week, then to FNB Stadium on September 5, before the final Test at M&T Bank Stadium in Baltimore on September 12.
SA Rugby CEO Rian Oberholzer noted that the tour carries added significance for the four franchises, whose supporters will see their sides face international opposition at home for the first time since the 2009 Lions tour.