The 2025 Rugby Championship delivered the drama fans expected and then some. With every team winning two of their first four games, the title race remained wide open until the final round.
Ultimately, South Africa emerged victorious, claiming back-to-back titles for the first time. But this wasn’t just about silverware. It was about testing combinations, rebuilding identities, and answering tough questions.
As the southern hemisphere sides prepare for November tours, we break down what we truly learned.
ARE THE SPRINGBOKS MORE THAN JUST POWER?
The Springboks’ back-to-back triumph confirms their depth, but their transformation is the real headline. Once defined by grinding, suffocating rugby, the Springboks showed glimpses of a thrilling new identity. Sacha Feinberg-Mngomezulu and Ethan Hooker brought flair, while the team began trusting width and tempo.
The 38-point demolition of Argentina in Durban was no fluke, it was a blueprint. Yes, they still scrum like bulldozers, but they now have a Plan B and sometimes, a Plan C. Jasper Wiese’s return highlighted their need for go-forward grunt, but the backs did the real damage.
The Springboks can win ugly, but for once, they can also win beautifully.
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DID JOE SCHMIDT FIX THE WALLABIES?
Taking over after a World Cup disaster, Joe Schmidt had his work cut out. Wins over the Springboks and Argentina lifted the Wallabies to third, avoiding a third straight wooden spoon.
He couldn’t reclaim the Bledisloe Cup, but Australia played with growing belief and structure. Schmidt unlocked dangerous talents like Max Jorgensen and Joseph Suaalii, who turned promise into performance.
Most importantly, the Wallabies learned how to finish matches, and not collapse under pressure. Their comeback against South Africa in Ellis Park was a statement of intent and identity.
Les Kiss now inherits a side brimming with youth, power, and – finally – direction.
ARE THE ALL BLACKS STILL FEARED?
Scott Robertson’s All Blacks played 43 different players across the tournament, hunting depth for the long term. But cracks are forming, particularly in discipline, composure, and decision-making.
Beauden Barrett reclaimed the 10 jersey with steady performances, but New Zealand’s fluidity looked absent. A record defeat to South Africa and a loss in Argentina were massive warning signs. Youngsters like Peter Lakai and Cam Roigard impressed, but leadership gaps remain at critical moments.
Yes, they remain competitive, but they’re no longer feared. With northern giants awaiting in November, Robertson must quickly find consistency and accountability.
HAVE ARGENTINA STALLED?
Last year, Argentina beat every other team in the competition, this year, they finished last. Their home win over New Zealand was historic, but blowing a lead to Australia hurt badly. Felipe Contepomi’s side still plays with verve, pace, and ambition, but their game lacks finishing polish.
Two wins from six isn’t catastrophic, but expectations have shifted since their rise in 2022. Opting to play a “home” game in London backfired, gifting the Springboks a crowd advantage. They remain capable of upsets, but consistency is still elusive.
Their tour to Wales, Scotland and England will define whether this is a step back or just a stutter.
IS THIS SPRINGBOK SIDE THE GREATEST OF THIS ERA?
Three Rugby Championships, two World Cups, a Lions series win, and the Springboks’ trophy cabinet keeps expanding.
But it’s not just silverware that sets this group apart. It’s their continued evolution. Rassie Erasmus has built a squad with scary depth, and just as much daring.
Whether it’s a 7-1 bench split or a full-throttle attack, these Springboks keep opponents guessing. Their youth movement, led by Feinberg-Mngomezulu and Canan Moodie, is no longer potential, it’s production.
Erasmus has proven he can win with legends, and win while building the next generation. They’re not perfect, but they may just be rugby’s new standard-bearers.
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WHAT WAS YOUR FAVOURITE RUGBY CHAMPIONSHIP MOMENT?
Let us know by leaving a comment below, or send a WhatsApp to 060 011 0211.
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