Siya Kolisi: South Africa flanker says he ‘never dreamt’ of reaching 50 games as captain

Siya Kolisi, the inspirational South African flanker, is about to mark a historic milestone as he captains his national rugby team for the 50th time. This significant occasion is set to take place during their crucial Rugby World Cup Pool B match against Tonga. It’s a momentous achievement for Kolisi, one that he admits he never even dared to dream of.

At 32 years old, Kolisi has already left an indelible mark on the sport. He captained the Springboks to victory in the 2019 World Cup, making history as South Africa’s first black captain. His journey to this point is nothing short of remarkable. Born and raised in the impoverished township of Zwide, his early life was defined by struggle, hunger, and violence. The idea of leading his country in a sport as prestigious as rugby seemed like a distant fantasy.

“It’s honestly something I never dreamed of,” Kolisi confesses. “Where I come from, I didn’t have dreams like that.” His story took a dramatic turn when he received a scholarship to attend a predominantly white school. It was here that his rugby talents blossomed, and doors began to open.

“I played rugby because I enjoyed it, I played it because it kept me out of trouble, and I played it because most of my friends played it,” he explains. “I definitely didn’t think I would be sitting here now.”

Kolisi’s rise to becoming the iconic World Cup-winning captain started with the Stormers in 2017 when he was appointed as captain by former Springbok center Robbie Fleck. He humorously reflects on his earlier reputation within the team: “I’ve always been the joker in the team, the naughty one. Coach Fleckie came to my wedding and heard me speak. After that, he said, ‘I think you should lead the team.'”

However, it wasn’t until a year later that Rassie Erasmus, then-head coach and now director of South African rugby, promoted Kolisi to captain the national team. This was a significant step, laden with the weight of history and the responsibility of being the first black captain. It wasn’t without its challenges, as Kolisi candidly admits.

“In my mind, I was being captain of the Springboks, it’s a big thing already, but for so many people, it meant so much more, and I didn’t understand the weight of it.”

Kolisi acknowledges the crucial role played by his fellow players, including the likes of Duane Vermeulen, Eben Etzebeth, and Pieter-Steph du Toit, who have all captained the team. He also highlights the support of the coaching staff, particularly Rassie Erasmus and head coach Jacques Nienaber, who have known him since his teenage years.

This milestone places Kolisi in rarified company, with only John Smit, who led the Springboks to World Cup glory in 2007, boasting more Tests as Springbok captain with 83.

Kolisi’s journey to this point hasn’t been without adversity. He made a remarkable return to the field after partially tearing his anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) in April, just three weeks before the World Cup began. Now, he stands on the cusp of becoming only the second man to lift the Webb Ellis Cup twice, a feat previously achieved by New Zealand’s Richie McCaw.

As South Africa aims to defend their title, they are well-positioned to advance to the quarter-finals, having secured victories over Scotland and Romania in their initial pool matches. However, the road ahead requires a win against Tonga, as third-placed Scotland remains in contention with two games left to play in Pool B.

Siya Kolisi’s journey from a challenging upbringing to the pinnacle of rugby leadership is a testament to his resilience, determination, and the transformative power of sport. It’s a story that continues to inspire and captivate fans around the world, making Kolisi a true sporting icon.

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• [Siya Kolisi: South Africa flanker says he ‘never dreamt’ of reaching 50 games as captain](Link: https://www.bbc.com/sport/rugby-union/63110062)
• [Rugby World Cup Pool B: South Africa v Tonga](Link: https://www.bbc.com/sport/rugby-union/68061096)
• [Rugby World Cup fixtures, pools & BBC coverage](Link: https://www.bbc.com/sport/rugby-union/rugby-world-cup/schedule)
• [“When you use your voice, it remains there forever” – South Africa captain Siya Kolisi](Link: https://www.bbc.com/sport/rugby-union/63092108)
• [Siya Kolisi’s return to action with Wales](Link: https://www.bbc.com/sport/rugby-union/62521527)