The 2025 Rugby Championship title belongs to South Africa, who showcased a masterclass in set-piece dominance to overcome a spirited challenge from Argentina at Twickenham. The Springbok scrum was the decisive weapon, relentlessly squeezing the life out of the Pumas’ challenge and paving the way for a historic victory.
From the early stages, it was clear that the scrum would be a major factor. South Africa’s forward pack exerted immense pressure, winning a series of penalties that relieved pressure and established field position. This control allowed them to weather an early storm from Argentina and gradually impose their will on the contest.
Hooker Malcolm Marx was the personification of this forward power. He was a constant threat around the fringes and was rewarded with two tries, both coming from the platform laid by his fellow forwards. His destructive performance was instrumental in turning the tide after Argentina had taken a surprising, but deserved, early 13-3 lead.
The match being played in London was a considerable advantage for the Springboks. The financial decision by the Argentinian union to host the game at Twickenham meant they sacrificed the intimidating atmosphere of a home stadium. Instead, they faced a sea of green-clad supporters, a factor that Springbok coach Rassie Erasmus admitted made a significant difference.
While the Springboks celebrate their first-ever back-to-back titles, the long-term future of the championship remains uncertain. With scheduling changes and potential restructuring on the horizon, this may be the last time the tournament is played in its traditional format. This adds a layer of historical importance to a victory built on the age-old rugby principle of forward dominance.