When the Springboks lock horns with England at Ellis Park on Saturday, 4 July 2026, they won’t just be playing for a victory—they’ll be adding the 48th chapter to a fierce rugby rivalry that stretches back nearly 120 years.
From the muddy origins of the “Springbok” name to iconic Rugby World Cup battles, this fixture never fails to deliver high-stakes drama.
Where It All Began: The Birth of the Springboks
The very first Test between South Africa and England took place on December 8, 1906, at Crystal Palace in London, ending in a hard-fought 3-3 draw.
That historic fixture concluded South Africa’s first-ever official international tour—the legendary tour where the iconic “Springbok” nickname was born. After an earlier loss to Scotland, the newly christened Bok squad rallied to defeat Ireland and Wales before their historic stalemate with the English.
By The Numbers: South Africa’s Dominance
Fast forward to 2026, and the overall head-to-head record clearly favors the green and gold.
| Metric | Springboks | England |
| Total Wins (47 Tests) | 29 | 16 |
| Draws | — | 2 |
| Total Points Scored | 1,017 | 804 |
| Average Scoreline | 22 | 17 |
The Boks have shown incredible resilience across all venues over the decades:
- In England (25 Tests): The Boks hold a tight 13-11 edge (with 1 draw).
- In South Africa (16 Tests): Mzansi is a true fortress, with the Boks dominating 11-4 (with 1 draw).
- Neutral Ground (6 Tests): South Africa leads 5-1, a record anchored by the unforgettable 32-12 destruction of England in the 2019 Rugby World Cup Final in Yokohama.
The Stage is Set for Saturday
Rassie Erasmus has named a formidable lineup for the 48th encounter. Captain Siya Kolisi leads a brutal pack featuring Ox Nche and Eben Etzebeth, while a lethal backline propelled by Manie Libbok, Cheslin Kolbe, and Kurt-Lee Arendse is ready to light up Johannesburg.
With kick-off set for 17:40 SAST at Ellis Park, the Boks are primed to protect their flawless home record against their old rivals.
