Although the Springboks did not compete in the first two World Cups in 1987 and 1991, South Africa played a central role in the establishment of the tournament.

The New Zealand All Blacks celebrated a fifth consecutive year atop the IRB World Rankings last weekend with a win over Scotland in Edinburgh. The All blacks have historically been a force to reckon with in world rugby, but the dominance they have displayed in the last half decade is exemplary and unparalleled.