All Blacks defeat Bulls in final warm-up before Springboks series

The All Blacks concluded their preparations for the Test series against South Africa with a commanding 50-19 victory over the Bulls at Loftus Versfeld in Pretoria on Saturday, August 15, 2026. The win marked New Zealand's third consecutive victory on tour, following earlier successes against the Stormers and Sharks, and provides a significant confidence boost ahead of the first Test against the Springboks at Ellis Park on Saturday, August 22.

New Zealand, coached by Dave Rennie, delivered a comprehensive performance, scoring eight tries to the Bulls' three. The match was played at altitude in Pretoria, a condition the All Blacks will face again at Ellis Park. Stand-in captain Codie Taylor led the side and scored a try, while winger Josh Moorby and center Leroy Carter each crossed twice. The All Blacks' scrum, anchored by props Xavier Numia and Tyrel Lomax, was particularly dominant, winning several crucial penalties.

Bulls coach Johan Ackermann acknowledged his team was underprepared, playing the match in the middle of their preseason. He noted that while the Springboks would be significantly stronger, his side could learn from the All Blacks' approach. Ackermann suggested the...