In this week’s episode of The Rugby Paper Roundup…

Rugby’s greatest rivalry is in full swing as New Zealand and South Africa continue their blockbuster series — and the All Blacks have started in style with two wins from two.

Assistant Editor Ben Jaycock is joined by Kiwi podcaster Gareth Williams from the Super Smack podcast to break down the latest chapter of the All Blacks-Springboks rivalry, starting with one of the most talked-about moments of the tour: Ma’a Nonu’s solo haka response against the All Blacks.

Gareth explains the cultural significance of the moment in New Zealand, why it resonated so strongly, and how it was received back home.

We also analyse the All Blacks’ dominant 54-0 victory over the Sharks, including a standout performance from Jordie Barrett.

We discuss:

•⁠ ⁠Ma’a Nonu’s solo haka and its cultural significance •⁠ ⁠Jordie Barrett’s claim to being the best inside centre in world rugby •⁠ ⁠The Hurricanes influence running through the All Blacks backline •⁠ ⁠How much confidence New Zealand should take into the Bulls fixture

🔥 Does the All Blacks aura still exist?

We also take a wider look at rugby’s place in New Zealand culture.

Has rugby lost some of its grip on the country? Are the Warriors and rugby league now the trendier ticket? Is Super Rugby really struggling — or are rising TV audiences and sell-out crowds telling a very different story?

Gareth gives us the view from New Zealand on:

•⁠ ⁠How much this South Africa series has gripped the public •⁠ ⁠The historical importance of the Springboks-All Blacks rivalry •⁠ ⁠Whether the All Blacks remain New Zealand’s biggest sporting brand •⁠ ⁠The health of grassroots and Super Rugby •⁠ ⁠Frustration around constant law changes •⁠ ⁠Why the picture may be healthier than some headlines suggest

🏆 How will the Test series finish?

With former All Blacks suggesting one Test victory should be the minimum expectation on such a brutal tour, we ask whether a 2-2 split would actually be considered a success — or whether New Zealand still expects to win the series outright.

Plus, Gareth gives his series prediction, thoughts on England and his verdict on Henry Pollock.

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