Share

NZ, SA to meet in Soweto

Wellington - All Blacks coach Graham Henry has inadvertently revealed New Zealand and South Africa will play their Tri-Nations rugby match on August 21 at the Soccer City stadium in Soweto.

South African officials have yet to announce their decision to move the match from Ellis Park in Johannesburg to the 95 000-seat Soweto venue of this month's football World Cup final.

Henry let slip the information Friday in an interview with the stuff.co.nz website. He confirmed the venue for the match in answer to a question then recognized his error and sought advice from the All Blacks' media manager.

"Yeah, that's official isn't it," Henry said, before turning to media manager Joe Locke and asking "am I allowed to say that Joe?

"I've just said it, haven't I? It's been speculated ... no, I'm not allowed to say that. No, it's only speculated we're playing in a stadium that holds 97 000. Gee, that would be great, wouldn't it? I can't wait."

The South African Rugby Union was expected to announce the move in Johannesburg on Wednesday.

We live in a world where facts and fiction get blurred
Who we choose to trust can have a profound impact on our lives. Join thousands of devoted South Africans who look to News24 to bring them news they can trust every day. As we celebrate 25 years, become a News24 subscriber as we strive to keep you informed, inspired and empowered.
Join News24 today
heading
description
username
Show Comments ()
Voting Booth
Should Siya Kolisi keep the captaincy as the Springboks build towards their World Cup title defence in 2027?
Please select an option Oops! Something went wrong, please try again later.
Results
Yes! Siya will only be 36 at the next World Cup. He can make it!
25% - 1273 votes
No! I think the smart thing to do is start again with a younger skipper ...
29% - 1473 votes
I'd keep Siya captain for now, but look to have someone else for 2027.
45% - 2252 votes
Vote
Editorial feedback and complaints

Contact the public editor with feedback for our journalists, complaints, queries or suggestions about articles on News24.

LEARN MORE