When Two Greats Come Together: An "Extra Smooth" New Chapter In Rugby’s Greatest Rivalry Revealed -

Castle Double Malt becomes the Title Partner of Rugby’s Greatest Rivalry, celebrating the enduring pursuit of greatness that has defined one of world sport’s most iconic sporting contests for more than a century. It’s the Kiwis first full tour of SA in 30 years.

Vaughan Croeser (VP of Marketing, SAB; Bismarck du Plessis (Springbok Legend); Sean Fitzpatrick (All Blacks Legend); Thomas Lawrence (Brand Director, Castle Double Malt), and Bakkies Botha (Springbok Legend) celebrate Castle Double Malt’s landmark Title Partnership launch for Rugby’s Greatest Rivalry at FNB Stadium.

Castle Double Malt today took its place at the heart of Rugby’s Greatest Rivalry, becoming the Title Partner of one of world sport’s most celebrated sporting properties and marking the most significant chapter yet in the brand’s journey into South African rugby.

The title partnership will bring supporters closer to Rugby’s Greatest Rivalry than ever before through one of the biggest fan engagement programmes associated with the series, including nationwide watch parties and a host of experiences designed to celebrate one of rugby’s greatest contests and to be announced in due course.

At Johannesburg’s iconic FNB Stadium, the next chapter of Rugby’s Greatest Rivalry unfolded before rugby legends, current Springboks, representatives from SA Rugby and New Zealand Rugby, media and invited guests. Hosted by former Springbok and broadcaster Gcobani Bobo, the launch opened with an Impi Zulu warrior performance, whose rhythmic energy and unmistakable sense of national pride set the tone for the occasion.

Gcobani Bobo hosts Springbok champions Lukhanyo Am and Kwagga Smith at the Castle Double Malt launch, discussing the tactical precision defining Rugby’s Greatest Rivalry.

Across three carefully curated conversations, the launch celebrated Castle Double Malt’s Rugby’s Greatest Rivalry through its past, present and future.

Leaders from South African Breweries, SA Rugby and New Zealand Rugby explored the significance of Castle Double Malt’s title partnership before Springbok legends Bakkies Botha and Bismarck du Plessis joined former All-Blacks captain, Sean Fitzpatrick, to reflect on defining moments, unforgettable encounters and the enduring spirit that has shaped more than a century of rugby history. The spotlight then shifted to the future as current Springboks Kwagga Smith and Lukhanyo Am looked ahead to the upcoming fixtures and the opportunity to add their own chapter to one of world sport’s greatest rivalries.

An Impi Zulu warrior performs as Castle Double Malt brings “Extra Smooth” precision and cultural heritage to FNB Stadium for Rugby’s Greatest Rivalry. #ExtraSmooth #WhenTwoGreatsComeTogether

As Rugby’s Greatest Rivalry draws closer, Castle Double Malt begins celebrating the moments that define the game at its smoothest- and roughest; from breathtaking displays of skill and composure to the gees and camaraderie that have inspired generations of rugby supporters.