Why the All Blacks’ mid-week tour games were a triumph for South African rugby

Although the touring All Blacks closed out their franchise fixtures with a thrilling victory over the Lions, the true victory lies in the nostalgic, high-tempo spectacle this historic midweek tour brought back to South African rugby fans. Picture: Nokwanda Zondi/BackpagePix

I felt a tinge of sadness when the final whistle sounded between the Lions and the touring All Blacks at Ellis Park on Tuesday evening, but it was not because the hosts had lost the match at the death.

Instead, it signalled the end of an old-school tour element as the All Blacks switch back into full international mode.

For local spectators, this entire tour has been a breath of fresh air.

When the Springboks and the All Blacks clash, you generally know what to expect: relentless physicality paired with moments of explosive precision. The franchise tour matches offered something entirely different.