The All Blacks may no longer get the chance to test themselves against the United Rugby Championship (URC) franchises every season, but veteran hooker Cody Taylor admits it is something the New Zealand players still miss dearly.
Before South Africa’s departure from Super Rugby a couple of seasons ago, clashes between the Crusaders, Blues, Hurricanes, Chiefs and Highlanders against the Stormers, Bulls, Sharks, and Lions was among the competition’s toughest matches. The physicality, unique playing styles and hostile and at times welcoming atmospheres made tours to the country a highlight for many Kiwi players.
Now, with South African teams competing in the URC, those regular contests have disappeared, leaving only international windows and the occasional tour, such as the upcoming Rugby’s Greatest Rivalry, for the two nations to renew acquaintances.
Taylor admitted the change has been a bit disappointing, particularly because of the different challenges South African teams bring.
“Yeah, look, undoubtedly it sucks not being able to come over here for Super Rugby,” Taylor said.
“I used to love these tours, love the contests that we have against all the clubs. 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.”
Those experiences have remained fresh in Taylor’s memory, especially the Crusaders’ last stop in Cape Town that ended in a draw against the Stormers, a result that summed up just how fiercely the contest between the South Africans and Kiwis were on a club rugby level.
However, with the local teams now firmly entrenched in the URC, the visitors are relishing the opportunity to reignite that rivalry, starting with the opening tour game at the DHL Stadium on Friday.
“Just remembering back to 2019, we came over here, played the Stormers and drew. The competitiveness is always there, even though we don’t play each other a lot. It is what it is, though. Who knows, maybe one day it’ll happen again.”
