DID YOU KNOW? Rhodesia (now Zimbabwe) beat the All Blacks 10-8 in Bulawayo on 27 July 1949, and drew 3-3 with them three days later?

Last year the Rugby World Cup was held in France, with the South African Springboks triumphing over the New Zealand All Blacks 12-11. The All Blacks are considered the pinnacle of national Rugby excellence but 75 years ago they were defeated by a provincial side in southern Africa. The provincial side remains undefeated against the All Blacks, the only team in history to do so.

The team represented Northern Rhodesia (now Zambia) and Southern Rhodesia (now Zimbabwe). The first match, played in Bulawayo in front of 10,000 people, resulted in a surprising defeat for the All Blacks 10-8. At the time the All Blacks were (and still are) one of the most formidable teams in international rugby. The significance of this defeat was made more poignant in the return match three days later with a 3-3 draw in Salisbury (now Harare). And for my New Zealand readers, 1949 remains the worst years in All Black history, with losses of 4-0 to the Springboks and 2-0 to the Wallabies.

What were the factors contributing to the defeat?

1. Complacency of the All Blacks: The All Blacks, being a top team, might have underestimated Rhodesia, leading to complacency. The All Blacks were surprised by the dash of the Rhodesians, who played a different, open, and attacking brand of Rugby, as distinct from the safety-first South African teams.
2. Local Conditions: The All Blacks were possibly not fully acclimatised to the local conditions in Rhodesia. Local knowledge and adaptation to specific environments can be crucial in determining the outcome of a contest.
3. Psychological Advantage: The Rhodesian team, motivated by the opportunity to make history, may have had a psychological advantage. They had everything to gain and nothing to lose, which can be a powerful motivator.

The Rhodesian rugby team’s victory over the New Zealand All Blacks in 1949 is a noteworthy event in the annals of sports history, particularly rugby.

Here are three lessons for managers that go beyond the realm of sports, offering valuable insights for managers in various fields.

1. Never Underestimate the Underdog: In business, as in sports, complacency can be a downfall. Always respect your competitors, regardless of their size or perceived strength.
2. Adaptability: The ability to adapt to different environments and conditions is crucial. Managers must be flexible and responsive to changing situations, whether in market conditions, consumer preferences, or competitive landscapes.
3. Motivation and Team Spirit: The Rhodesian team’s victory underscores the importance of motivation and team spirit. In management, fostering a strong team culture and keeping the team motivated, especially during challenges, can lead to significant achievements.

The Rhodesia vs. All Blacks games of 1949 serve as a timeless reminder of the unpredictable nature of sports and, by extension, the competitive world of business. They highlight the importance of preparation, respect for all competitors, adaptability, and leadership.

Note: Rhodesia RFU were treated as a province of South Africa for rugby reasons. Their players were eligible for selection by the South African team. Many were selected to play for the Springboks. Rhodesia never won another game against a touring side before being reconstituted as Zimbabwe in 1980.

@thenetworkofconsultingprofessionals