The All Blacks have fired the first shot in Rugby’s Greatest Rivalry, stunning the Springboks with a commanding 33-16 victory at Ellis Park in Johannesburg.

In a match billed as one of the biggest clashes in world rugby, New Zealand produced a ruthless second-half performance to silence an enthusiastic home crowd and take a 1-0 lead in the four-Test series.

The Springboks looked dangerous early on and dominated large periods at scrum time, but the All Blacks absorbed the pressure before turning the contest on its head. New Zealand scored five tries to South Africa’s solitary effort, with Will Jordan among the standout performers after crossing twice.

A crucial moment arrived after South Africa failed to convert a series of close-range attacking opportunities. Fabian Holland then struck with a charge-down try, swinging momentum firmly in New Zealand’s favour.

The Springboks’ frustration boiled over late in the contest as two players were sent to the sin bin, while New Zealand maintained its composure to close out an impressive victory.

For Rassie Erasmus and the world champions, the defeat is a major wake-up call. South Africa must now win the remaining three Tests if they are to claim the series.

The second Test takes place in Cape Town on August 29, with the All Blacks suddenly holding all the momentum.