Mark Gleeson

New Zealand defeated the Sharks 54–0 in a much-improved performance on their South Africa tour, scoring eight tries without conceding. Fehi Fineanganofo scored twice, while Damian McKenzie and six other players also crossed the line, with Ruben Love converting seven tries. McKenzie left the match before half-time after twisting an ankle, but coach Dave Rennie expects him to be fit for the opening Test against the Springboks. Former All Black Ma'a Nonu made a notable late appearance for the Sharks.

New Zealand opened its eight-match South Africa tour with a 38–21 victory over the Stormers at Cape Town Stadium. The All Blacks struggled with handling errors and indiscipline, including two early sin-binnings, and were held 14–14 until the 65th minute. Late tries from Leroy Carter, Josh Moorby and Samisoni Taukei'aho secured the win after the Stormers had mounted strong resistance. New Zealand next face the Sharks in Durban.

French referee Mathilde Demoncay was knocked to the ground while trying to break up a confrontation between players during a pre-season friendly between FC Metz and Fortuna Sittard in Forbach, France. She briefly resumed officiating but left the field at half-time after sustaining an arm injury. Fortuna Sittard lost the match 3–1, while neither club provided substantive comment on the incident.