Codie Taylor relishes epic tour of South Africa

Codie Taylor says the All Blacks are relishing the chance to face South African opposition again after a six-year wait for the unique physical challenge that comes with touring the country.

Codie Taylor Relishes South Africa Challenge

Taylor, who will captain New Zealand during the early stages of the Rugby’s Greatest Rivalry tour, said he has missed the experience of playing South African teams in Super Rugby.

The veteran hooker admitted it was disappointing that South African franchises are no longer part of the competition, saying those tours used to offer a different type of test for New Zealand players.

He said South African teams bring a physical edge, strong set-piece pressure and dangerous backline speed that cannot easily be replicated elsewhere.

“Undoubtedly it sucks not being able to come over here for Super Rugby,” said Taylor.

“I used to love these tours, love the contests that we have against all the teams.

“It’s a different brand of rugby to what we get back home, and you get a taste of it when you come over here.

“Big, physical men, great set-piece sides, but then also backs that can burn you pretty quick.”

All Blacks Prepare For Stormers Test

New Zealand will begin their tour against the Stormers in Cape Town on Friday, the first of several matches against South African franchise sides before the Test series against the Springboks.

Taylor said the coming weeks would be a major challenge for the All Blacks as they prepare to face big, powerful forwards and teams that pride themselves on scrum and lineout strength.

Rugby’s Greatest Rivalry Begins

The tour gives New Zealand players a rare opportunity to experience a traditional South African rugby trip, with hostile crowds, travel demands and heavy physical contests all part of the challenge.

Taylor said the All Blacks know how much South African teams lift for home matches and expects the tour to test their depth, discipline and resilience.

“We’ve got a bigger squad for the midweek games.

“It’s going to be tough, but at the same time it allows everyone to work on our game heading into the Test matches,” Taylor added.

“It’s all new for this team, but the standards are so high."