Bulls vs New Zealand: Preview and Predictions 

The stage is set for a huge Rugby’s Greatest Rivalry showdown as the Vodacom Bulls take on the All Blacks on Saturday, 15 August. And with the Springboks set to face New Zealand next weekend, this clash gives South African rugby fans an early taste of what could be coming when the two nations meet in the first Test of the series. 

The Bulls will have home advantage and a strong squad packed with Springbok experience, but they face an All Blacks side coming off an insane 54-0 win over the Sharks. New Zealand also defeated the Stormers 38-21 in their opening tour match, making them firm favourites heading into Pretoria. 

Why This Match Matters So Much   

This is about more than just another rugby match. The Bulls vs New Zealand clash is part of Rugby’s Greatest Rivalry, the historic All Blacks tour of South Africa that will culminate in four Tests between the Springboks and New Zealand. 

The All Blacks are using these provincial matches to build momentum and give players one final opportunity to push for selection before the first Test against the Springboks on 22 August.  

For the Bulls, meanwhile, this is an opportunity to test themselves against one of the world’s most dangerous international sides. They have selected a strong team featuring four Springboks, including Willie le Roux, Embrose Papier, Curwin Bosch and captain Marcell Coetzee. 

Tactical Overview  

The Bulls will need to make their physicality count. South African sides traditionally thrive on confrontational forward play. The Bulls will need to turn the Loftus altitude and home crowd into advantages. 

At 1,350 metres above sea level, Loftus Versfeld presents an unusual challenge for visiting teams. The thinner air can also make kicks travel further, meaning tactical kicking could become an important part of the contest. 

The Bulls are likely to look for territory through the boot before relying on their powerful forwards to build pressure. Curwin Bosch and Embrose Papier will also be key to controlling the tempo and finding space behind the All Blacks’ defensive line. 

New Zealand, however, will want to play with pace. Their 54-0 victory over the Sharks demonstrated how dangerous they can be when they gain momentum, with their attack producing eight tries. 

Players to Watch  

Marcell Coetzee (Bulls)  

The Bulls will need a huge performance from captain Marcell Coetzee. The experienced loose forward brings physicality, leadership and plenty of big-game experience to the side. He will be central to the Bulls’ attempt to slow down New Zealand’s attacking rhythm. 

Beauden Barrett (New Zealand)  

Starting as fulback for the All Blacks, Beauden Barrett remains one of the most experienced players in the New Zealand squad. With 144 Test caps, his ability to create opportunities, kick intelligently and exploit gaps could make him one of the biggest threats to the Bulls. 

Starting Lineup (Bulls)  

1. Alulutho Tshakweni 

2. Juann Else 

3. Francois Klopper 

4. Ruan Vermaak 

5. JF van Heerden 

6. Marcell Coetzee (C) 

7. Hanro Liebenberg 

8. Jeandre Rudolph 

9. Embrose Papier 

10. Curwin Bosch 

11. Stravino Jacobs 

12. Harold Vorster 

13. Stedman Gans 

14. Thaakir Abrahams 

15. Willie le Roux 

Replacements  

16. Jaundre Schoeman 

17. Sti Sithole 

18. Khutha Mchunu 

19. Reinhardt Ludwig 

20. Mphilo Gumede 

21. Paul de Wet 

22. Katlego Letebele 

23. Hakeem Kunene  

Starting Lineup (New Zealand)  

1. Xaver Numia 

2. Codie Taylor (C) 

3. Tyrel Lomax 

4. Fabian Holland 

5. Patrick Tuipulotu 

6. Simon Parker 

7. Anton Segner 

8. Peter Lakai 

9. Cortez Ratima 

10. Josh Jacomb 

11. Josh Moorby 

12. Anton Lienert-Brown 

13. Rieko Ioane 

14. Leroy Carter 

15. Beauden Barrett 

Replacements  

16. Samisoni Taukei’aho 

17. George Bower 

18. Siale Lauaki 

19. Josh Lord 

20. Wallace Sititi 

21. Kyle Preston 

22. Timoci Tavatavanawai 

23. Emoni Narawa  

Match Details 

Date: 15 August 2026  

Venue: Loftus Versfeld, Pretoria 

Kick-off Time: 19:00pm  

TV: SuperSport  

Prediction  

The Bulls have enough experience and firepower to make this an entertaining contest, particularly with home advantage. However, New Zealand’s recent form makes them difficult to oppose. 

The All Blacks have already beaten the Stormers and demolished the Sharks 54-0 on this tour, while their squad contains considerable Test experience. Their ability to rotate players without sacrificing attacking quality could prove decisive as the match progresses. 

The Bulls should make New Zealand work for the result, but the All Blacks’ pace, depth and attacking quality give them the edge 

Prediction: New Zealand to win 

Do the Bulls have what it takes to upset the All Blacks? Bet on rugby now with bet.co.za.