Springbok coach Rassie Erasmus says the team’s biggest motivation remains making South Africans proud and happy.

The Boks beat New Zealand 43-28 in Baltimore to claim the inaugural Castle Double Malt Rugby’s Greatest Rivalry title, winning the four-match series 3-1.

The Springboks scored six tries to New Zealand’s four in front of a USA rugby record crowd of more than 68,000, with a large contingent of South African supporters among those in attendance.

Erasmus praised the travelling fans, but said the team also plays for those watching from home.

“We don’t forget the people who were at home; the people in the farm or the boy in the township or the people in the shopping mall. That’s what drives us.”

He added that while winning is important, the ultimate goal is to give South Africans something to celebrate.

“Obviously we want to win and that’s great for us as a team and that’s why we play rugby, but we want them to be happy.”

The victory also confirmed the Springboks’ status as the world’s number-one ranked team.

Erasmus acknowledged that the Boks’ approach can sometimes attract criticism internationally, but said the team remains focused on South Africa.

“We enjoy the other people around the world, and we understand their opinions and love the banter, but there’s only one reason for us as a team and for us as a country, it’s for South Africa,” he said.

Captain Siya Kolisi also thanked supporters, saying their backing is what drives the team.

The match remained closely contested until the final quarter, despite South Africa eventually pulling away to secure a third consecutive win over the All Blacks.

Erasmus said the result should not suggest there is a wide gap between the two sides.

“I wouldn’t say we were the better team [today]. At 60 minutes the game was still in the balance. We appreciate that we won but the margin between us and New Zealand is very small.”

After the final whistle, the two teams shared a moment of prayer.

Kolisi said the gesture reflected the respect between the long-standing rivals, despite the intensity of their battles on the field.

The Springboks will now turn their attention to the next phase of their 2026 season after securing another series victory over New Zealand.