South Africa’s most decorated captain, Siya Kolisi, is relishing the chance to be part of a history-making moment in the sport’s greatest rivalry.
When the All Blacks arrive in South Africa next year for a full-scale tour, it will mark their first traditional visit since 1996. Siya Kolisi, who has played the All Blacks in World Cups, Rugby Championships and once-off Tests, believes this tour offers something no modern fixture can replicate.
“This is one of the biggest touch matches in world rugby,” Kolisi said. “It’s exciting to have New Zealand come to South Africa for three games.”
A FIRST OF ITS KIND EXPERIENCE FOR KOLISI AND CO
For Kolisi and many of his Springbok teammates, this will be the first time they experience an extended series with the All Blacks on home soil. The concept mirrors the British & Irish Lions tours, with multiple matches, time to connect, and pressure that builds over weeks.
“These are the tours that we’ve only heard of,” said Kolisi. “We’ve never been there physically as a team.”
The series will replace the Rugby Championship in 2026 and include four Tests, three in South Africa, one at a neutral venue, and additional matches against local franchises. It’s a throwback to the old-school tours of the amateur era, but with a professional edge.
“To experience this for the first time, where it’s similar to a Lions tour, it’s exciting for us as a group,” said Kolisi.
Kolisi also acknowledged the significance of the tour for their long-time rivals. “I think it’s exciting for New Zealand too,” he said. “So we’re really excited for it.”
The Springbok captain hopes the current squad will still be intact to take part in the series. With the tour still over a year away, he knows nothing is guaranteed, but the goal is clear.
“Hopefully, we – this group here – are all part of it and we are there to experience it,” he said.
CAPTAIN KOLISI CALLS ON FANS TO SHOW UP AND SHOW OUT
Kolisi also sees this tour as a chance for South African rugby fans to showcase their passion to a global audience. He expects packed stadiums, singing fans and flags flying high when the All Blacks arrive.
“I have no doubt the South African fans will be there waiting to welcome the All Blacks fans in South Africa,” he said.
While there will be pressure and intensity, Kolisi believes the series will be played in the right spirit – just as it always has between the two nations.
“This game has always been played in great spirit,” he said. “I have no doubt that this is going to be something huge.”
More than just a rugby event, Kolisi sees this as a defining cultural moment for the players and supporters alike.
“It’s something that this generation will never forget,” he said.
With a return tour to New Zealand set for 2030, Kolisi urged fans to embrace the moment and rally behind the Springboks.
“Let’s all get excited. Let’s get behind it,” he said. “It’s an opportunity for us to show the world once again who we are and what we can do.”
For Kolisi, the countdown has already begun.
“Can’t wait for it,” he said.
RUGBY’S GREATEST RIVALRY TOUR FIXTURES 2026:
Friday 7 August: DHL Stormers v New Zealand at DHL Stadium, Cape Town
Tuesday 11 August: Hollywoodbets Sharks v New Zealand at Hollywoodbets Kings Park, Durban
Saturday 15 August: Vodacom Bulls v New Zealand at Loftus Versfeld, Pretoria
Saturday 22 August: First Test – South Africa v New Zealand at Ellis Park, Johannesburg
Tuesday 25 August: Lions v New Zealand at Ellis Park, Johannesburg
Saturday 29 August: Second Test – South Africa v New Zealand at DHL Stadium, Cape Town
Saturday 5 September: Third Test – South Africa v New Zealand at FNB Stadium, Johannesburg
Saturday 12 September: Fourth Test – South Africa v New Zealand (venue to be announced)
ARE YOU PLANNING ON ATTENDING ANY OF THE TOUR GAMES?
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