Family bragging rights on the line for Williams

Springbok scrumhalf, Grant Williams, will have some extra motivation when the world champions face the All Blacks in the first of four Rugby’s Greatest Rivalry Tests on Saturday, with several members of his family members supporting New Zealand.

Support for the All Blacks grew among some South Africans during apartheid, when racial segregation saw many people of colour support opposition sporting teams.

Williams says the divided loyalties have not created tension at home, but have instead made the rivalry more enjoyable.

“If I get selected, it will be an honour to represent my country. It goes deeper than that. You have family members who are All Blacks supporters, close members,” said Williams.

“It will give me bragging rights if we can get one up on them in the family.”

Williams says he will put himself in a “bubble” to block out all the All Blacks support around him.

“So I won’t get to hear all of the things. My only job is – if selected in Cape Town or wherever – my job is to make sure that the team go forward, that I understand what the team need. That will be my week, if selected.”

A special occasion 🗣️#Springboks #ForeverGreenForeverGold #RugbysGreatestRivalry pic.twitter.com/HMSxCrM4vs

— Springboks (@Springboks) August 18, 2026

Written by: Ntsako Mukhari