South Africa Springbok captain Siya Kolisi is optimistic that South Africa can secure a historic win over New Zealand in Saturday’s Castle Lager Rugby Championship clash at DHL Stadium in Cape Town.
With the Freedom Cup on the line, the Boks are aiming to claim the coveted trophy for the first time since 2009 and continue their push for the Rugby Championship title.
Kolisi, who sustained a nasal fracture in last week’s 31-27 victory over New Zealand in Johannesburg, assured fans he was fully fit for the crucial rematch. “I’ve trained all week, which is all I needed to do to be selected.
The worst that can happen is that my nose breaks worse, but I’m planning to get it fixed anyway,” Kolisi said during a press briefing on Friday.
The Springboks, currently riding a wave of momentum, have the opportunity to achieve several milestones with a victory.
Not only would it mark their fourth consecutive win over the All Blacks — a feat last accomplished in 1949 — but it would also place them in prime contention for the Castle Lager Rugby Championship.
Cape Town, however, has traditionally been a stronghold for the All Blacks, adding extra significance to the encounter.
Kolisi emphasized the importance of starting strong, unlike last week’s come-from-behind win.
“We are in a place we’ve never been before in the Championship, and most of us in this group haven’t touched the Freedom Cup. So, for us, the key is to put our front foot forward from the outset, rather than trying to fight back the way we did last week,” Kolisi said.
Springbok assistant coach Mzwandile Stick echoed Kolisi’s sentiments and stressed the need for physical and mental sharpness against a dangerous New Zealand side.
“You can never be comfortable playing against the All Blacks. If we are not at our best, they can put you away,” Stick warned, adding that the All Blacks’ powerful backline will require the Boks to be at the top of their game defensively.
The Freedom Cup adds an extra layer of motivation for the Springboks, particularly as South Africa celebrates 30 years of democracy. Stick highlighted the symbolic significance of winning the trophy on such a special occasion.
“It’s a special trophy, and with our country celebrating 30 years of democracy, it’s an important occasion for South Africa, so we’ll do everything we can to win it,” he said.
Both Kolisi and Stick acknowledged that facing the All Blacks is never an easy task, with most of their recent encounters decided in the dying seconds. “We know how tough it’s going to be,” said Stick. “It will be tough, but we live for moments like these.”
Kolisi also expressed his excitement about playing in front of a diverse crowd, traditionally known for its strong support for New Zealand. Despite the All Blacks’ fan base, Kolisi and his teammates are focused on delivering their best performance and winning over the home crowd.
“The main thing will be to go out there and play the best rugby we can. If we do that, hopefully we can sway a few supporters our way,” Kolisi said.
As the Springboks prepare for what promises to be an epic 80-minute battle, they remain focused on seizing the moment and potentially making history.
A victory on Saturday could mark the beginning of a memorable campaign for South Africa as they look to add the Freedom Cup to their list of achievements.
