Springboks’ experience will edge ‘transformed’ All Blacks in four-Test epic – Bulls coach Ackermann insists

Bulls coach Johan Ackermann expects the All Blacks to pose a formidable threat in their first extended South African tour for three decades – but still believes the Springboks’ experience and depth will prove decisive in Rugby’s Greatest Rivalry.

New Zealand will meet the Springboks in a four-Test series on South African soil, while also lining up against the country’s four United Rugby Championship franchises as part of an historic tour schedule.

Ackermann, whose Bulls side will host the All Blacks at Loftus Versfeld in a tour clash a week before the series opener, says the visitors have been revitalised under head coach Dave Rennie and will arrive as a significantly changed outfit.

“The All Blacks will be a different team with Dave Rennie,” Ackermann told the Bulls’ official website, highlighting the influence of the former Australia boss on New Zealand’s tactical approach.

‘Springboks just too strong’

Despite his admiration for what Rennie has brought to the All Blacks, Ackermann is adamant the world champions retain the upper hand heading into the four-match showdown.

“I still think the Springboks will win because I think we’re settled with our experience, depth, quality and set piece,” he said.

“Everything in me says that the Springboks will be just too strong.”

Ackermann points to the continuity within the Springbok squad and the strength of their forward platforms as key reasons for his confidence that South Africa will edge the contest over the course of the series.

His assessment comes amid growing anticipation around the latest chapter in one of rugby union’s most storied international rivalries, with both sides expected to field near full-strength squads across the four Tests.

Loftus date offers Bulls players “memory forever”

Beyond his view on the Test series, Ackermann is also preparing his Bulls squad for a high-profile encounter of their own when they face the All Blacks at Loftus Versfeld.

The match, part of New Zealand’s wider tour itinerary, will take place a week before the opening Test against the Springboks and serves as a key fixture in the Bulls’ build-up to the new United Rugby Championship campaign, which kicks off in September.

Ackermann believes the chance to take on the All Blacks will be a landmark moment in the careers of his players.

“It’s a memory that will stay with them forever,” he said.

“It’s a great opportunity to measure yourself, but also to experience something you’ve probably only watched on TV.”

For the Bulls, the Loftus clash offers a rare opportunity to test themselves against one of the sport’s most iconic national teams in front of their home supporters, while giving the All Blacks additional high-intensity game time in South African conditions.

As the countdown continues to both the tour fixture in Pretoria and the four-Test series between the Springboks and All Blacks, Ackermann’s view underlines a growing narrative: New Zealand, reshaped by Rennie, are dangerous and evolving – but South Africa, in his eyes, still possess the settled power and depth to prevail in Rugby’s Greatest Rivalry.