Fast start key as All Blacks down Springboks in Auckland tussle

TRY MERCHANT: Will Jordan of New Zealand makes a run during The Rugby Championship match between New Zealand and South Africa. Pic: Dave Rowland/Getty Images

New Zealand beat South Africa 35-20 to all but claim the Rugby Championship for the third straight year on Saturday and disrupt the world champion’s buildup to the World Cup.

A shock-and-awe beginning which saw the All Blacks score two tries and lead 17-0 after 15 minutes left the Springboks gasping before they staged a massive comeback in the second half at Mt Smart Stadium.