The All Blacks open their historic South African tour against the Stormers at Cape Town's DHL Stadium, promising high-tempo running rugby and top-tier entertainment. Picture: LUIS ROBAYO / AFP
With the wait nearly over, Stormers fans are preparing to be dazzled by a powerful, high-octane All Blacks side when the teams clash on Friday at DHL Stadium in Cape Town.
Renowned worldwide for their relentless brand of running rugby, New Zealand enter their opening tour match against a formidable United Rugby Championship outfit with every reason to play with flair. Head Coach Dave Rennie and tour captain Codie Taylor will be eager to establish the standard for this "new era" of All Blacks rugby right from the opening kickoff.
Tactically, expect the New Zealanders to test the Stormers with high-tempo phase play, rapid recycling at the breakdown, and sweeping wide-wide attack to exploit Cape Town's firm track. While their set-piece will provide a uncompromising foundation, the All Blacks will likely use quick lineout restarts and counter-attacks off kick returns to stretch the home defence and keep the match fluid.
Although the tourists are heavy favourites, they know better than to drift into complacency. With a deep squad eager to prove itself early, the All Blacks will be determined to put on a show and give the local crowd full value for their tickets.
