Ardie Savea didn’t hesitate when naming a Springbok as his toughest-ever opponent

One of the most complete loose forwards rugby has ever seen, Ardie Savea has built a reputation as a relentless match-winner for the All Blacks.

Born in Wellington, Savea rose through the ranks with the Hurricanes before making his All Blacks debut in 2016. Since then, he has become a cornerstone of New Zealand rugby, earning over 100 Test caps and starring at multiple Rugby World Cups.

Equally devastating at flanker or No.8, Savea is known for his explosive ball-carrying, breakdown dominance, and incredible engine. Few forwards can match his ability to change a game single-handedly.

In 2023, his influence was recognised when he was crowned World Rugby Men’s Player of the Year, cementing his place among the game’s elite.

If Savea is chaos in motion, Pieter-Steph du Toit is controlled destruction.

Standing at 2 metres tall and weighing over 115kg, du Toit is a physical specimen who combines raw power with tireless work rate. Born in Cape Town, he made his Springbok debut in 2013 and has since become one of South Africa’s most dependable warriors.

A two-time Rugby World Cup winner (2019, 2023), du Toit is renowned for his brutal defence, lineout presence, and ability to play across the back row and at lock.

His performances during the Springboks’ 2019 World Cup triumph earned him World Rugby Player of the Year, a rare honour for a forward whose value often goes beyond the highlight reel.

Whenever New Zealand and South Africa collide, all eyes are drawn to the battle between Ardie Savea and du Toit.

It’s pace versus power.
Athleticism versus endurance.
Freedom versus force.

Savea recently named du Toit as the toughest opponent he has faced — high praise in a career filled with world-class rivals. And it’s safe to say the feeling is mutual.

When these two meet, it’s not just a contest for dominance — it’s a clash between two players who define what modern forward play looks like.

As the host nation, Australia was placed in Pool A, while the rest of the line-up was revealed as the teams were drawn.

Men’s Rugby World Cup is heading to Australia and organisers announced that it would be bigger than ever in welcoming the world: 24 nations and territories, seven cities, six weeks, one cup. Fans had been invited to register their interest for pre-sale details.

World Rugby Chair Brett Robinson was joined on stage by former Rugby World Cup winner and All Blacks legend Dan Carter, Australia’s most-capped male player, James Slipper, and Australian Olympics gold medallist, Alicia Lucas, as they conducted the draw.

Each of the six pools featured a team from Bands 1, 2, 3 and 4.

The confirmed Bands based on rankings were:

Band 1: South Africa, New Zealand, England, Ireland, France, Argentina
Band 2: Australia, Fiji, Scotland, Italy, Wales, Japan
Band 3: Georgia, Uruguay, Spain, USA, Chile, Tonga
Band 4: Samoa, Portugal, Romania, Hong Kong China, Zimbabwe, Canada

New Zealand – Perennial contenders with flair, power and unmatched rugby IQ.
Australia – Unpredictable but dangerous, capable of brilliance on their day.
Chile – Fast-improving newcomers bringing passion and fearless physicality.
Hong Kong China – Skillful, energetic, and eager to prove themselves on the global stage.

South Africa – Brutal, relentless, and brutally efficient—never count them out.
Italy – Developing rapidly, mixing strong set-piece work with expanding ambition.
Georgia – Scrum specialists with raw forward strength and growing all-round polish.
Romania – Proud and powerful, known for toughness and unwavering fight.

Argentina – Dynamic, crafty, and fiercely competitive with a never-say-die spirit.
Fiji – Magical offloads, searing pace, and unique unpredictability.
Spain – Determined climbers building consistency and confidence every year.
Canada – Physical and committed, working to regain their traditional sharpness.

Ireland – Well-drilled, intelligent, and ruthlessly efficient across the park.
Scotland – Creative attackers with growing confidence and slick backline play.
Uruguay – Tenacious, organized, and fearless against bigger rugby nations.
Portugal – Exciting, fast-paced, and thriving with a young, fearless core.

France – Electric, unpredictable, and capable of brilliance from anywhere.
Japan – High-tempo, disciplined, and tactically sharp—they never stop moving.
USA – Athletic and physical, with a growing pool of exciting talent.
Samoa – Bone-shaking tackles, powerful runners, and trademark island flair.

England – Structured, strategic, and capable of grinding down any opponent.
Wales – Proud, passionate, and dangerous when the momentum swings their way.
Tonga – Heavy hitters with explosive power and fearless intensity.
Zimbabwe – Energetic and ambitious, bringing speed and spirit to every contest.

From jaw-dropping tries to unforgettable moments (and yes, some questionable haircuts), these players defined a golden era of the game. If their names don’t instantly come to mind, we suggest a quick trip to YouTube to jog your memory. Trust us, it’s worth it.

Ready to test your knowledge? Let’s see if you’ve still got it. Good luck!