South Africa put in a masterclass of forward power to thrash New Zealand 35-7 in their Rugby World Cup warm-up fixture at neutral Twickenham on Friday, the biggest-ever loss for the All Blacks in their 102-year Test history.
It was a performance that serves as a warning to the Springboks' rivals as they prepare to defend their World Cup title in France as they scored five tries through captain Siya Kolisi, wing Kurt-Lee Arendse, hookers Malcolm Marx and Bongi Mbonambi and flanker Kwagga Smith.
New Zealand played the entire second half with 14 players after lock Scott Barrett received a second yellow card, equating to a red, as they had no answer to the Springboks’ intensity and set-piece domination.
Replacement back Cam Roigard scored a consolation try for New Zealand but coach Ian Foster will be alarmed at how his first-choice selections were second best in every facet of the game ahead of their World Cup opener with France in Paris on September 8th.