Springboks vs Wales: A History of the Rivalry

This year marks 120 years of the Springbok versus Wales rivalry. Over the years, these two sides have played one another 44 times. Out of these 44 matches, South Africa have won 36 of them and have drawn once.  

While South Africa enjoyed early wins over Wales, the 2010s turned things around for the Welsh side. They beat the Springboks five out of six times between 2014 and 2018, with their most recent 32-29 win being in 2022.  

So, the question on everyone’s mind is: Can the Springboks keep up their winning streak? Or will Wales make a comeback? 

Ahead of the Nations Championship clash on Saturday, we’re going to deep dive into the history behind one of rugby’s most one-sided rivalries – South Africa versus Wales.  

The Origins of the Springboks vs Wales Rivalry 

Dating back to 1906, during the British Isles tour, the South African-Welsh rivalry is over 100 years old. It began with South Africa unexpectedly beating the Welsh 11-0. For South Africa, this win was monumental for two reasons.  

Firstly, the Springboks were just beginning to establish themselves internationally. Secondly, Wales were coming off a win over the All Blacks. This was their “Golden Era,” where they had redefined how Wales played rugby internationally.  

So, this historical win cemented South Africa’s reputation as one of the emerging rugby powerhouses. It was also the starting point of a six-straight winning streak for South Africa over Wales.  

How the Rivalry Changed Over the Years 

The Springboks versus Wales rivalry evolved as rugby evolved. Before the professional era emerged in 1995, Test matches were infrequent. This meant that every match was a major occasion happening during months-long tours.  

But since 1995, with the emergence of the Rugby World Cup and annual competitions such as the Nations Championship, South Africa and Wales have met more frequently. In fact, minus 2020, these teams have met every year since 2013.  

As a result, these matches are highly contested, regardless of rankings or recent form. Wales have produced memorable victories, especially between 2014 and 2018; however, the overall stats strongly favour South Africa.  

Now, let’s look at some of the highest winning margin matches played between the Springboks and Wales.

South Africa 96-13 Wales (1998) 

This 1998 Test at Loftus Versfeld marked the largest winning margin between these two sides on South African soil. Not only this, but it is the largest Springbok score against Wales.  

Fresh off the 1995 Rugby World Cup, the 1997 dominance over Scotland, and the 1998 Tri-Nations Series, South Africa was on a winning streak. Here, a young Rassie Erasmus scored a try for South Africa. This match demonstrated South Africa’s rugby dominance during the 1990s.  

South Africa 73-0 Wales (2025) 

The Springboks claimed their 5th victory in a row against Wales in 2025. They smashed Wales 73-0 in what is the largest win over Wales on their own soil. This heavy home defeat was marked by 11 tries, two of which were scored by Sasha Feinberg-Mngomezulu. 

This triumph marked another win for the Springboks in Cardiff. The South African side dominated in scrums and capitalised on space and speed. The “Bomb Squad” entered during the second half, helping to add 45 points to the scoreboard.  

South Africa ended 2025 as the world’s number one rugby team. This match showcased their depth, tactical flexibility, and ruthless execution.  

South Africa 53-18 Wales (2004) 

During the 2004 Wales tour of Argentina and South Africa, the Springboks beat Wales 53-18. This match combined physical forward play, disciplined defence, and a clinical finish. 

While Wales showed attacking intent, they struggled to keep up with the Springboks’ relentless pressure at the scrum and breakdown. This match highlighted the growing divide between these two traditional powerhouses, as Wales had not won a match since 1999. South Africa went on to dominate Wales until 2014.  

South Africa 41-13 Wales (2024) 

This 28-point victory over Wales showcased the Springboks’ talent post the 2023 Rugby World Cup. The South African side dominated from start to finish with powerful forwards and impressive set pieces.  

The Springboks scored five tries and dominated the second half of the match. But Wales struggled to keep up against the back-to-back world champions. This victory helped South Africa maintain momentum going into their summer Tests against Ireland.  

Another Chapter Awaits This Saturday 

On Saturday, 18 July, the Springboks take on Wales in Round 3 of the Nations Championship at Kings Park, Durban. Wales enter this match in 5th place on the Northern Hemisphere log. This comes after a 35-21 loss to Argentina last Saturday.  

The Springboks enter this match in first place on the Southern Hemisphere log after their 42-28 win over Scotland. South Africa will be looking for their sixth consecutive win. Wales will be chasing their first win over the Boks since 2022. So, expect this match to be a nail-biter.  

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The Springboks have won 82% of matches against Wales. Most of these wins have been unbelievable achievements. From their 96-13 triumph to their most recent 73-0 victory, South Africa have showcased why they’re one of rugby’s most successful nations.  

So ahead of Saturday’s game, expect another incredible display of power from both sides. This will no doubt be another fiercely contested Test between the Springboks and Wales.  

Can Wales end South Africa’s long-standing dominance, or will the Springboks add a 6th back-to-back win? Bet on rugby now with bet.co.za.