Former New Zealand winger Scott Hamilton says he reckons the All Blacks-Springboks rivalry has dissipated somewhat.

Register your interest for the British & Irish Lions tickets in South Africa 2021

Hamilton, who played two Tests for the All Blacks in 2006, spoke exclusively to Sport24 this week and responded when asked whether the rivalry between the nations was still a real drawcard:

“Owing to the physicality of South African and New Zealand players the fixture is always keenly anticipated and there is always going to be a healthy rivalry between the two nations. However, owing to the fact South Africa and New Zealand play against each other so often I think the rivalry has dissipated and, as a New Zealander, I would much rather beat England…” Hamilton said.

Hamilton, who won three Super Rugby titles with the Crusaders and also played 98 games for Saracens in England, says the northern hemisphere nations have improved over the last decade.

“I may be based in the UK, but I certainly support the southern hemisphere sides when they play up here. The good thing about rugby is that whilst the All Blacks have been dominant for a while, the competitiveness of the likes of England, Ireland and Wales has got a lot better over the last 10 years. The consistency from the top sides has improved.”

READ | Scott Hamilton’s full Q&A interview with Sport24

– Compiled by Sport24 staff