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All Blacks to start World Cup defence against old nemesis

By Peter Thompson

02 Nov 2017

Richie McCaw lifts the Webb Ellis Cup

New Zealand will start their quest to win a third consecutive Rugby World Cup with a mouth-watering clash against South Africa in Yokohama.

The All Blacks beat the Springboks at the semi-final stage of the 2015 World Cup in England before going on to defeat Australia in the final.

Steve Hansen’s men begin the defence of their title against their fellow-Pool B heavyweights at the International Stadium on September 21 in the 2019 tournament.

Hosts Japan get the World Cup started a day earlier at Tokyo Stadium versus a European qualifier in Pool A.

England face Tonga at Sapporo Dome on September 22, a day after 2015 runners-up the Wallabies take on Fiji at the same venue.

Ireland against Scotland in Pool A in Yokohama is another standout fixture in the first round of matches.

The full match schedule for #RWC2019 🏆🇯🇵 pic.twitter.com/LUIACEmObT
— Rugby World Cup (@rugbyworldcup) November 2, 2017

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Comments on RugbyPass

The One 9 minutes ago

South Africa player ratings | 2024 Autumn Nations Series

I'd rate the brothers Hendricks a point or two lower. Jaden has really not delivered on his early promise and Jordan's kicking at posts was quite erratic. Amongst other things.

I was really surprised that DuhDuh was replaced and not Jordan. DuhDuh had a great game and just underlined his class in a backline that was not firing on all cylinders.

Damian Willemse was missed. Hopefully he'll be back to full fitness and have an injury free 2025 (and '26 and '27 and so on until he decides to retire to spend time with his grandchildren).

RG was great. What an athlete.

Very happy that Hanekom made his debut at last. He gave a good account of himself and will hopefully grow into his role on the international stage.

All things considered, this was another frustrating Bok performance. Even though it was a comfortable win, it wasn't a commanding win. This Welsh team should've been put away by a far larger margin.

But I have faith in Dr Rassie. He knows more than I do. Bring on 2027 😁

2 Go to comments

kenday 43 minutes ago

Italy vs New Zealand | Live & Latest Rugby Union Scores & Results | RugbyPass

Go the AB's .. Probs win by about 30 I reckon ... Cheers ..

5 Go to comments

Bull Shark 52 minutes ago

Italy vs New Zealand | Live & Latest Rugby Union Scores & Results | RugbyPass

Nice touch with the haka.

5 Go to comments

Bull Shark 55 minutes ago

Italy vs New Zealand | Live & Latest Rugby Union Scores & Results | RugbyPass