South Africa have made a bold statement in their opening match of the inauguralNations Championship at Ellis Park in Johannesburg.
Despite the late withdrawal of captain Siya Kolisi and lock Eben Etzebeth, plus the early departure of prop Ox Nche, the Springboks recorded a convincing 45-21 victory over England.
The two-time defending World Cup champions were quick out of the blocks, scoring three tries inside the first quarter.
However, England clawed their way back into the match and the Springboks went into half time with a narrow 17-14 lead. In the end, they outscored their opponents by seven tries to three.
They next host Scotland at Loftus Versfeld in Pretoria next Saturday.
A strong start to the Nations Championship
#Springboks#ForeverGreenForeverGoldpic.twitter.com/ECGYAB4uBF
— Springboks (@Springboks) July 4, 2026
