‘Uli is going to kill you’: All Blacks legend Sean Fitzpatrick remembers a rivalry like no other

In 1992, a South African youth approached Sean Fitzpatrick, captain of the All Blacks, during their tour to Johannesburg with a sign that declared, "Uli is going to kill you." Fitzpatrick, recalling the incident, emphasized the gravity of the All Blacks-Springboks rivalry, which he regarded as the ultimate test in world rugby. Growing up in New Zealand, Fitzpatrick recalled the 1976 tour where the All Blacks wore knee pads to prevent grass burns, highlighting the significance of the rivalry that dates back nearly a century.

Fitzpatrick, who became a central figure in this rivalry, led the All Blacks to their first series victory in South Africa after almost a century of trying. Returning to South Africa in 1996, a year after the Springboks won the World Cup, he left with a piece of history. During the 1996 series, Fitzpatrick and his 1996 Springbok counterpart, Gary Teichmann, unveiled the trophy that would be contested over a four-Test series.

Fitzpatrick emphasized that the rivalry extended beyond the field, with the All Blacks facing pressure from South African fans, who sometimes shouted, "We are going to kill you. And we're going to scrum you."

For Fitzpatrick, being back in South Africa for the Rugby's Greatest Rivalry tour was an unforgettable experience. He and Teichmann unveiled the trophy, marking the beginning of the four-Test series. Fitzpatrick shared the significance of the rivalry, stating that as an All Black captain, coming to South Africa in 1992 to play at Ellis Park was a dream come true.

The All Blacks were playing against heroes like Danie Gerber, and they aspired to be like the legendary Uli Schmidt. The pressure was immense, both on and off the field, with fans and locals expressing their opinions constantly. For Fitzpatrick, the rivalry is a 24-7 challenge, and he loves being back in a great rugby country.