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The Express Gazette
Sunday, February 22, 2026

All Blacks retain Bledisloe Cup with 33-24 win over Wallabies at Eden Park

Roigard's late try seals victory as New Zealand extends Bledisloe hold to 23 years

Sports 5 months ago
All Blacks retain Bledisloe Cup with 33-24 win over Wallabies at Eden Park

The All Blacks defeated Australia 33-24 at Eden Park to retain the Bledisloe Cup for the 23rd consecutive year. New Zealand also extended their long-running home dominance at the venue, remaining unbeaten at Eden Park for 52 matches, and moved to the top of the Rugby Championship standings with one game remaining.

New Zealand started strongly, with Caleb Clarke crossing inside three minutes and further tries from Leroy Carter and Cam Roigard pushing the lead to 20-3 midway through the first half. Australia responded through Billy Pollard, and a late first-half score by Harry Potter left the teams within three at halftime. Two penalties from Damian McKenzie extended the All Blacks' lead in the second half, but a converted try from Wallaby flanker Carlo Tizzano set up an exciting final phase. Roigard then calmed home nerves, crossing under the posts from a Jordie Barrett pass to seal the win.

New Zealand now lead the Rugby Championship with one game remaining, though South Africa would overtake them with a victory over Argentina later on Saturday. Australia sit in second with two wins and three losses, heading into their final tournament game against the All Blacks in Perth next weekend. Australia have not won at Eden Park since 1986 and have now suffered 23 consecutive defeats at the venue.

The Bledisloe Cup is contested annually by the two nations. The 2025 edition is played over two matches; in the event of a 1-1 draw the cup remains with the holders.


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