Watch VideoWhy these five All Blacks could derail the Springboks in Rugby’s Greatest Rivalry

Flyhalf Ruben Love (left) and winger Will Jordan could be two key players for the All Blacks during Rugby’s Greatest Rivalry series against the Springboks. Dave Rennie has assembled anAll Blackssquad packed with experience, youth and gifted match-winners forRugby’s Greatest Rivalryseries, knowing it will take a complete team effort to topple the world championSpringbokson their own turf. Every player will have a role to play across the demanding four-Test campaign and mid-week matches, but the influence of a handful of proven stars and emerging talentscould ultimately determine whether New Zealand leave South Africawith the upper hand.

We take a look at five key players for the All Blacks ahead of the tour. Although he is enjoying an extended break ahead of the first Test at Ellis Park in Johannesburg, inspirational captain Ardie Savea will arguably be New Zealand’s most valuable player on tour. His leadership, relentless work rate and warrior spirit will be central to the All Blacks’ challenge.

That is probably why the All Blacks opted to give him some extra time off, ensuring he is fully recharged for the four-Test series — three matches in South Africa and one in Baltimore in the United States. It will be a gruelling campaign, and having their captain mentally and physically fresh could make all the difference. If Savea is at his best, the All Blacks will fancy their chances of matching the world champions.

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The All Blacks pack functions at its best with Cody Taylor in the middle, making it crucial that the experienced hooker stays fit throughout the series. None of New Zealand’s other hookers can quite match what he offers as a starter, whether through his accurate lineout throwing, strong ball carries or tireless work at the breakdown.

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