Overview

• New Zealand will be replaced at the top of the rankings if they do not beat South Africa this weekend, with a loss dropping them to third regardless of margin.
• Eden Park remains a formidable venue with an All Blacks unbeaten run of 50 Tests, while South Africa’s last success there was in 1937 with a draw in 1994 and no visit since 2013.
• A Springboks victory by more than 15 points would raise their rating to about 92.06 and create roughly a 2.23-point cushion at No. 1.
• A South African win would secure a fifth straight triumph over New Zealand in the professional era and strengthen their push for the Rugby Championship and the Freedom Cup.
• Ardie Savea is in line for a 100th Test appearance in Auckland if selected.