New Zealand highlighted their status as the world’s best rugby playing nation as they dominated the inaugural Rugby Championship.

In a new format that saw Argentina brought in order to extend the competition from the Tri-Nations, it was the same old story as the All Blacks once again stole the show as they emerged from the tournament undefeated with a 32-16 victory against South Africa.

A format that many within the rugby community had hoped would be introduced ever since Argentina’s 3rd place finish at the 2007 World Cup, its introduction seemed a justified decision.

Although New Zealand were denied a first victory in the competition after succumbing 25-19 to Australia last Saturday, the inclusion of ‘Los Pumas’ has re-invigorated Southern Hemisphere rugby’s premier tournament. Victory is just around the corner for Argentina, as the 16-16 draw with South Africa proved. It would be no surprise to see them challenging for the major honours within world rugby sooner rather than later.

With the Autumn internationals approaching, the fortunes of Australia and South Africa will be intriguing with the Home Nations sensing victory against two teams which were not at their best throughout the Rugby Championship.

With both teams humbled by the All Blacks and only securing a victory apiece against each other, confidence cannot be high in either camp. While the Australians seem to have taken up the mantle as the Southern Hemisphere’s equivalent of France with inconsistent displays, the Springboks are still finding their feet and playing style under new coach Heyneke Meyer.

The relatively poor performances of Australia and South Africa should not detract from the achievement by the All Blacks. Without star player Dan Carter for the majority, New Zealand proved that, with six victories, their strength is unsurpassable in the modern game.

They proved unstoppable against the best in the South and it would be no surprise to see them also sweep aside the best of the Northern Hemisphere.