Siya Kolisi said on Friday that he was thrilled about becoming the ninth player in Springbok history to earn 100 Test caps, with this milestone set to become official when he takes to the field against France in Paris on Saturday night.
In the lead up to the blockbuster Test at the Stade de France, messages of congratulations have understandably been flooding in from far and wide for Kolisi, who is widely regarded as one of the most influential and inspirational rugby players and captains of all time.
In another tribute video shared to social media by Kolisi’s representatives at Roc Nation Sports International, the post showcased messages from Brazil and Real Madrid football superstar Vini Jr, England internationals Marcus Smith and Ellis Genge, as well as Springbok teammates such as Cheslin Kolbe and Aphelele Fassi.
It’s also understood that Roc Nation have arranged for a special ‘Kolisi congratulations’ billboard to be displayed throughout the day at the famous Times Square in New York.
Unforgettable occasion for Siya Kolisi
Commenting on the build-up to this massive occasion for him personally, Kolisi said: “It’s been a relaxed week. If we were at home, I think it would have been a little different. Obviously, I feel the occasion within the team, but the most important thing for me is what we do as a team tomorrow.
“I’ve been fortunate enough to have my children here and people who have been supporting me over the years, so it has been special in that sense. But the team comes before the individual in our set-up, and if the group does well, the milestone will be special anyway, so we just want to give ourselves the best chance to win tomorrow.”
Delving deeper into his feelings ahead of the game, the Bok skipper said: “I’m very proud and honoured, and I’m grateful to everyone who has played a part in my life because I would not be here without my community and the people of all walks of life who have helped me.
“The foundation of who I am, however, is from Zwide and the wider community. The people there parented me, and the teachers at school believed in me, and it was the same when I went to Grey High School.”
‘Special thanks’
Kolisi also shared a word of thanks to those who have helped him along the way to 100 caps.
“In the rugby environment, coach Rassie has been immense. He gave me my first contract, and then there was coach Heyneke (Meyer), Allister (Coetzee), who gave me my first start, and Jacques (Nienaber), as well as all my club coaches. I’ve taken lessons from them all. They could have chased me away, but they backed me.
“I’m also grateful to all my teammates from childhood to where I am today, and I carry all of them in each game, along with all the South Africans who expect so much from this team because they’ve seen what we are capable of.
“But I’m not doing it alone. I’m doing it with my teammates and all the people in the wider squad. It’s always a huge honour to wear the Springbok jersey, but to do it 100 times is extra special.”
