Several Springboks have posted tributes to captain Siya Kolisi, including his bestie Eben Etzebeth, on the occasion of his 100th test cap.
The 34-year-old will mark the milestone at a match between South Africa and France on Saturday at the Stade de France.
Siya joined the Boks in 2013 and was appointed captain five years later.
SPRINGBOKS SHOW LOVE TO SIYA KOLISI
On Instagram, Siya Kolisi’s Springbok peers and pals shared touching tributes in celebration of his 100th test cap.
An emotional Eben Etzebeth reflected on his firm friendship with the flanker, whom he met as a teenager during Craven Week in 2009.
He shared alongside a series of pics with his pal: “God put you on this earth to headline chapters, and that’s what you are doing. Once in a generation, a person like yourself is born to give hope to millions and inspire millions. I’m so grateful to call myself one of your best friends and to be a part of this chapter.”
He continued: “You are such an inspiration to millions of people out there for the person you are and the things you do, but for me, you are also an inspiration, but in a whole different way. You inspire me to realize that it doesn’t matter what life throws at you, you always run into the storm doesn’t matter how daunting it looks. You’ve been running at storms since you were small, my brother. You also inspire me on the field by the way you play and how you always give everything for the Green & Gold, never giving up, and inspiring your teammates by your actions.
Eben – who has 138 test caps and counting – added: “We’ve become actual brothers, sometimes we don’t agree, very few times we’ve had an argument, but the bond and love we have for each other is unbreakable. I’m right next to you this weekend. I love you, brother”.
RG Snyman shared on his Instagram: “You are a man I will follow into battle a thousand times over!”
Handré Pollard, Faf de Klerk, and Willie le Roux also left messages congratulating Siya Kolisi.
‘HE UNDERSTANDS SOUTH AFRICA’
Meanwhile, Springbok coach Rassie Erasmus has paid tribute to Siya Kolisi in the lead-up to the latter’s 100th test cap.
Speaking to the press, the Boks boss praised the captain for remaining humble and using his platform to promote national cohesion.
He said of Siya: “One thing he can be proud of is that he represents South Africa, he understands South Africa. He’s always stayed humble and serves the team, and that will always stand out.”
Like Siya, Rassie is also celebrating a special occasion this weekend – his 50th test cap as head coach.
