World champions South Africa go in search of a third successive test victory over New Zealand on Sunday that would secure the four-game series and lay down a marker ahead of next year’s World Cup.
The final game of New Zealand’s six-week, eight-match tour of South Africa is being played in the United States as the top-ranked sides in the world look to promote the “Rugby’s Greatest Rivalry” series to a wider audience.
South Africa lead 2-1 after three bruising contests.
“The games have been tough and physically demanding, but we cherish every moment of it,” said South African lock Eben Etzebeth in the build-up.
Etzebeth added that while the World Cup represents the pinnacle of rugby success, it does not have the same intensity as taking on the All Blacks for four straight weekends.
“Surely the toughest challenge in the game,” he said.
The Springboks have dominated the forward contest, seeking to outmuscle the Kiwis.
The All Blacks have employed a fast, running game that has brought 13 tries to eight for South Africa, but the tourists have been giving away too many penalties.
“We’re really clear on their DNA and how they want to play,” said All Blacks coach Dave Rennie. “They’ll be clear on what we want to do, and it’s a real contrasting type of style, which I think brings the intrigue.”