Fierce rivalry has characterised rugby union relations between world champions South Africa and the New Zealanders since time immemorial. But in 2009, the Springboks are putting aside their differences to offer their traditional foe a 'hand-up'.

The remarkable century-long competition for top-dog honours in rugby union has had moments of intensity unmatched in any sporting code. Between the world's No.1 team, the Springboks, and the second-placed team, the All Blacks, a virtual chasm had developed, running up to the 2007 IRB Rugby World Cup.

Such was the intensity of the run-up leading to South Africa winning the RWC trophy a second time, that much harm was inflicted on an already fragile relationship between rugby union's front-runners.

'The All Blacks suffered a huge setback in form throughout 2007 and this has even their traditional foe concerned'


With 2007 behind us, the South African rugby fraternity has set its sights on mending fences and relations with beleagered New Zealand rugby union.

South Africa, who have experience in hosting the jewel of IRB tournaments, the Rugby World Cup, will be extending an olive branch to their old foes and assisting New Zealand with preparations for its hosting of the IRB Rugby World Cup in 2011.

Beyond the technical expertise in the planning and administration of the event itself, the South Africans have offered to send coaching staff to New Zealand to assist with the rebuilding of their flagging national side.

The All Blacks suffered a huge setback in form throughout 2007 and this has even their traditional foe concerned. South African rugby union fans love to hate the All Blacks, but are quick to admit the sport would not be the same without a strong New Zealand side.

With this in mind, many concerned Springbok fans have called for, and it appears have succeeded in, arranging for Springbok rugby union experts to guide the rebuilding of the former powerhouse of rugby union.

Jack White, the Springbok World Cup coach, has reportedly been linked to a school for All Black rugby union coaches and has been working with the New Zealand national coach, Graham Henry.

With the reputation of the Southern Hemisphere at stake, Springbok rugby union fans are confident the All Blacks will be back and no expense will be spared to ensure the 2011 Rugby World Cup in New Zealand will be a Southern Hemisphere extravaganza with the All Blacks back in their form of old.