1981 South Africa rugby union tour of New Zealand and the United States union was once again the dominant sport – in both spectator and participant numbers – in New Zealand. 1981 South Africa rugby union tour of New Zealand and the United States The 1981 South African rugby tour (known in New Zealand as the Springbok Tour, and in South Africa as the Rebel Tour) polarised opinions and inspired widespread protests across New Zealand. The controversy also extended to the United States, where the South African rugby team continued their tour after departing New Zealand. Apartheid had made South Africa an international pariah, and other countries were strongly discouraged from having sporting
History of the South Africa national rugby union team tour games. By contrast, South Africa would not lose another series—home or away—until 1956. Paul Roos was the captain of the first South African team to tour the British Isles and France. The team was largely dominated by players from Western Province, and the tour took place during 1906–07. The team played 29 matches; including Tests against all four Home Nations. England managed a draw, but Scotland was the only one of the Home unions to gain a victory. During this tour the nickname "Springboks" was first used. There is often confusion as to the springbok symbol being worn before