South Africa and New Zealand to clash at Twickenham ahead of Rugby World Cup 2023

Twickenham Stadium will be hosting a high prolific clash between New Zealand and South Africa on 25th August ahead of the Rugby World Cup next year.

This will be the second time the two teams will face each other at the iconic stadium in London after the semi-final in the 2015 World Cup which saw the All Blacks edge out Springboks with a 20-18 victory.

Both the teams have won the World Cups thrice apiece and they have dominated the last four editions with New Zealand winning the 2011 and 2015 editions while South Africa clinched the 2007 and 2021 trophies.

“There is a large contingent of passionate expats and Springbok supporters in London, and we have no doubt they will come out in numbers and give us a lift before we attempt to defend our World Cup crown," said South Africa head coach Jacques Nienaber.

Meanwhile, New Zealand head coach Ian Foster believes the game against the Springboks will heavily aid their preparations heading to the showpiece event in France.

“This match will form an important part of our preparations for Rugby World Cup,” Foster said.

“Matches against the Springboks are always hard-fought and we are expecting nothing less than a titanic battle on this unique occasion.”

Rugby Football Union chief executive Bill Sweeney was delighted with the announcement as he believes the clash between the two heavyweights will be a treat to the spectators.

“We are looking forward to welcoming two powerhouses of global rugby. Both nations have sizeable ex-pat communities in London and beyond, who will no doubt contribute to what is set to be an electric atmosphere at Twickenham Stadium,” Sweeney said.