Tri Nations

Tri Nations Series champion is the title given to the rugby union nation (either Australia, New Zealand, South Africa, or, since 2012, Argentina) that finishes at the top of competition table of the annual Tri Nations Series. The Bledisloe Cup, an Australian-New Zealand trophy is also awarded within the series.

Each nation plays each other thrice on a home and away basis, though the number of games against each side was expanded from two to three in 2006. A nation receives four points for a win, two for a draw and none for a loss. A nation can obtain a bonus point by either scoring four tries in a match or by losing by seven points or less to the opposition. If nations finish level on points (points for winning, drawing and bonus match points), the first tiebreaker is point differential (the actual in game scoreline, a cumulative scoreline difference). The scoreline difference is worked out by subtracting the number of points a nation has had scored against them from the total points they have scored in the series. Should teams still be level, this is followed by number of tries scored by a nation during the series.

The Tri Nations was created amongst the SANZAR partners (along with the provincial Super 12 competition, now, Super Rugby). The tournament involves three southern hemisphere nations; Australia, New Zealand and South Africa. The series was created to form a similar competition to the Six Nations Championship (then, the Five Nations). The first tournament was held in 1996, which New Zealand won. It has subsequently been held annually. The competition has largely been dominated by New Zealand, who have won 10 championships, whereas Australia and South Africa have each won the series three times. New Zealand has won consecutive championships on three occasions (1996–97, 2002–03, and 2005–08) and Australia on one occasion (2000–01).

The Tri Nations tournament is an annual rugby union competition that brings together three of the top national teams in the Southern Hemisphere: Australia, New Zealand, and South Africa. This highly anticipated tournament showcases the best of rugby union talent and is known for its intense and fiercely competitive matches.

The Tri Nations tournament has a rich history, with its origins dating back to 1996 when it was initially established as the Tri Nations Series. Over the years, it has evolved into one of the most prestigious rugby competitions in the world, attracting a global audience and captivating fans with its thrilling displays of skill, strength, and strategy.

Each team competes against the other two teams in a round-robin format, with matches held in various stadiums across the participating countries. The tournament typically spans several weeks, allowing for ample opportunities for teams to showcase their abilities and adapt their game plans.

The Tri Nations tournament is renowned for its physicality and fast-paced style of play. The teams involved are known for their aggressive tackling, powerful scrummaging, and lightning-fast backline moves. The matches are often characterized by high-scoring encounters, with teams relentlessly attacking and counter-attacking in an effort to secure victory.

The tournament not only serves as a platform for fierce competition but also as a stage for players to showcase their individual talents. Many of the world's best rugby players have graced the Tri Nations tournament, leaving a lasting impact on the sport and etching their names in rugby history.

The Tri Nations tournament is not only a battle for supremacy on the rugby field but also a celebration of the rich rugby culture and heritage of the participating nations. The passionate support from fans, the electric atmosphere in the stadiums, and the intense rivalries between the teams all contribute to making this tournament a truly unforgettable experience.

As one of the most highly anticipated events on the rugby calendar, the Tri Nations tournament continues to captivate audiences worldwide with its thrilling displays of skill, fierce competition, and unwavering passion for the sport.