Boks rule the south with back-to-back Rugby Championship titles, but Europe awaits

For the first time in their history, the Springboks have won the Rugby Championship back-to-back — and they’ve done it with control, power, and a clear sense of purpose.

However, the future of the tournament is uncertain. The Boks don’t yet know whether they’ll have the opportunity to go for three in a row. Talks continue to grow around the proposed “Greatest Rivalry” tour between South Africa and New Zealand, set for next year, which could disrupt the southern hemisphere competition.

Despite that uncertainty, the Boks built their title-defending campaign on physical dominance and smart rugby, with a few standout players leading the way.

Though there were hiccups — a loss to Australia in Johannesburg and another to the All Blacks in Auckland — they responded like champions, finishing the campaign strong with a title-clinching win over Argentina in London this past weekend.

Loose forward Pieter-Steph du Toit reminded fans why he’s still one of the best in the world. Week after week, he delivered. He was tireless on defence, dominant at the lineout, and powerful with ball in hand. Jasper Wiese, returning from suspension midway through the competition, was another key figure.

His aggressive carries and crunching tackles gave the Boks real go-forward. He’s become a reliable force at number eight — but his value also raises a question: do the world champions possess the depth to cover his absence?

While the squad celebrates a well-earned victory, attention is already turning to the upcoming five-Test November tour.

In the United Rugby Championship, several inexperienced Boks players are pushing for inclusion. Eighthman Evan Roos (Stormers), flanker Vincent Tshituka (Sharks), fullback Quan Horn (Lions), and hooker Johan Grobbelaar (Bulls) will all look to make strong cases for selection and the competition for places will intensify in the next few club games overseas.

With the Rugby Championship trophy back in the cabinet, the Boks are in a good place. The blend of experience and emerging talent has clicked at the right time.

Now, the focus shifts to refining that formula — with two years to go before the 2027 Rugby World Cup in Australia.