Frank Bunce, the former All Blacks star, is feeling more optimistic than he has in years about the team's direction. With the Springboks looming in a four-Test series, Bunce believes the All Blacks are finally regaining their stride.
Rennie's early impact
Rennie took over at the start of the year following the dismissal of Scott Robertson and wasted no time instilling confidence in his squad. The All Blacks responded with three consecutive wins in the Nations Championship in July, with their performance against Ireland particularly noteworthy. It was one of the most cohesive displays New Zealand had seen in over two years, and Bunce says the shift in attitude is palpable.
The new coach’s mantra is 'optimism,' which is a stark contrast to the growing pessimism around New Zealand rugby after mixed results following the 2023 Rugby World Cup. For Bunce, the energy under Rennie is a welcome return to the kind of belief that once defined the All Blacks.
Springboks remain a challenge
While South Africa's Springboks are considered the clear favorites for the Test series—especially with Rassie Erasmus' deep squad—Bunce admits the All Blacks won't make it easy for them.
Bunce, who recently visited South Africa, was struck by how confident the Springboks are. “They’ve got a million people in Rassie’s squad,” he quipped. With so many high-quality players competing, the All Blacks will have to be at their best to take down the two-time world champions.
Next generation on both sides
Bunce also revealed he was taken aback by the physicality of a new wave of talent emerging in South Africa. He spoke about a yet-to-be-named 20-year-old second-row forward who is already bigger than Eben Etzebeth, the towering lock and record cap holder for South Africa. While the young giant may not immediately replace Etzebeth, his presence is a warning sign for New Zealand.
Etzebeth is expected to make his comeback in South Africa’s next match against Argentina. If he passes his return test, he could face the All Blacks in the first Test of the series in Johannesburg. But Bunce is convinced that as long as Rennie’s team gains their rhythm, they can compete with anyone—including the Springboks.