South Africa Edge New Zealand as Kolbe Breaks Jaw
Springboks Take 2-1 Series Lead After Thrilling Win Over All Blacks
ISLAMABAD: (Sports Desk) –South Africa secured a narrow 29-24 victory over New Zealand in Johannesburg on Saturday, moving 2-1 ahead in their four-Test series. However, the Springboks’ win came at a cost, with star wing Cheslin Kolbe suffering a broken jaw, coach Rassie Erasmus confirmed.
Kolbe, a two-time Rugby World Cup winner, was deployed at full-back after Damian Willemse was ruled out with a hamstring problem. His night ended just 10 minutes into the contest after he was forced from the field.
New Zealand also lost captain Ardie Savea to injury. The influential No. 8 scored twice before suffering a shoulder problem that will keep him out of next week’s series finale in Baltimore.
Erasmus praised the intensity of the contest and acknowledged New Zealand’s ability to maintain possession and attack with speed. He also highlighted South Africa’s powerful maul, while admitting the scrums were more evenly matched than the final score might suggest.
New Zealand coach Dave Rennie felt his side produced an impressive, high-tempo opening half but struggled after the break. He said errors allowed South Africa to gain momentum, particularly through the set pieces and scrums.
Player of the match Ethan Hooker said South Africa remained focused on executing their own game plan rather than becoming distracted by their opponents.
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