"Exactly what rugby needs" - Gary Teichmann hails Greatest Rivalry Tour

"Exactly what rugby needs" -  Gary Teichmann hails Greatest Rivalry Tour

Former Springbok captain Gary Teichmann believes the inaugural Rugby's Greatest Rivalry Tour is exactly what modern rugby needs.

The All Blacks have arrived on South African shores for the highly anticipated tour that is a throwback to the tours of old. Behind enemy lines and entrenched in the Republic for five weeks is not quite the three-month and 20-plus match tours of the past - but it's a start - and a welcome change of pace from the Rugby Championship.

Teichmann and fellow rugby legend Sean Fitzpatrick were tasked with unveiling the unique trophy for the Tour on Wednesday.

"I think it's brilliant for the players," said the retired Springbok.

"It's something different, and it's what professional rugby needs. We've had the same competitions for a long time. The public are very excited by the sounds of it, and I think it's brilliant."

Teichmann paid the All Blacks respect, but is confident the Springboks' squad depth will get them over the line in the end.

"It's not going to be an easy task over four Test matches, but Rassie has planned ahead," he continued.

"He's got a big base of really quality players. I think he can put together a strong team and another team-and-a-half of players he's comfortable putting out. I think he's in a very good position.

"I think Ellis Park has been good for the All Blacks against the Springboks. So it's a good place to start [for them].

"I'm certainly going to be at the game, shouting and supporting our team. They really are a phenomenal team. They've given South Africa a lot of joy, and I just hope that we can keep it going. 3-1 for South Africa."

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