Hear from TNT Sports rugby expert Ugo Monye as he previews England's clash with South Africa in the Autumn Nations Series, live on TNT Sports and discovery+. Monye is tipping England to put in their best performance of the series so far.
Click To: England vs South Africa Rugby Live anywhere Low Price
Click To: England vs South Africa Rugby Live anywhere Low Price
The rivalry between South Africa and England has produced some of rugby's most memorable moments, each clash carrying a unique narrative reflective of the time.
From South Africa's transformation after the disastrous early 2000s, to the unifying power of the 2019 World Cup and the 2023 semi-final nail-biter, these games highlight the emotional and historical stakes that go beyond the pitch.
As the Springboks and England continue their storied rivalry on Saturday at Twickenham, both teams can draw inspiration from some memorable past clashes which reminded us of rugby's power to shape national identity, heal divisions, and sometimes simply provide fans with a memorable show.
England 53-3 SA - 2002 year-end Springboks tour to England
Memorable because: It was an omen to an historic occasion just around the corner
England's 53-3 demolition of South Africa at Twickenham in 2002 remains one of the most lopsided matches in the history of their rivalry. The result marked South Africa's heaviest defeat against England and highlighted the contrasting directions the two teams were heading at the time.
Under Clive Woodward, England were emerging as a dominant force in world rugby, blending powerful forwards with a clinical backline led by the inimitable Jonny Wilkinson. They were already coming off the back of wins over New Zealand and Australia heading into the game.
The Springboks, on the other hand, were mired in internal issues and inconsistent performances. The game was part of a European tour during which South Africa's struggles were on full display. England took full advantage, running in seven tries and showing superiority in every aspect of play.
Click To: England vs South Africa Rugby Live anywhere Low Price
Click To: England vs South Africa Rugby Live anywhere Low Price
The rivalry between South Africa and England has produced some of rugby's most memorable moments, each clash carrying a unique narrative reflective of the time.
From South Africa's transformation after the disastrous early 2000s, to the unifying power of the 2019 World Cup and the 2023 semi-final nail-biter, these games highlight the emotional and historical stakes that go beyond the pitch.
As the Springboks and England continue their storied rivalry on Saturday at Twickenham, both teams can draw inspiration from some memorable past clashes which reminded us of rugby's power to shape national identity, heal divisions, and sometimes simply provide fans with a memorable show.
England 53-3 SA - 2002 year-end Springboks tour to England
Memorable because: It was an omen to an historic occasion just around the corner
England's 53-3 demolition of South Africa at Twickenham in 2002 remains one of the most lopsided matches in the history of their rivalry. The result marked South Africa's heaviest defeat against England and highlighted the contrasting directions the two teams were heading at the time.
Under Clive Woodward, England were emerging as a dominant force in world rugby, blending powerful forwards with a clinical backline led by the inimitable Jonny Wilkinson. They were already coming off the back of wins over New Zealand and Australia heading into the game.
The Springboks, on the other hand, were mired in internal issues and inconsistent performances. The game was part of a European tour during which South Africa's struggles were on full display. England took full advantage, running in seven tries and showing superiority in every aspect of play.