Pictures: Springboks captain Siya Kolisi visits All Blacks captain Ardie Savea’s family after record win

The Springboks and the All Blacks share one of rugby’s fiercest rivalries. Their encounters date back over a century. Games have often been filled with fierce battles, raw emotion, and unforgettable drama.

Older contests sometimes carried bitterness, anger, and even political undertones. Both nations see rugby as more than a sport. It is a matter of pride, identity, and passion. Yet in recent years, the rivalry has grown into something deeper.

It remains fierce on the field, but friendship often blossoms off it. Siya Kolisi and Ardie Savea are the latest captains to show this bond.

Springboks Siya Kolisi All Blacks Ardie Savea family — Siya Kolisi and Ardie Savea. image via Instagram @siyakolisi

Springboks captain Siya Kolisi visits All Blacks captain Ardie Savea’s family after record win

After South Africa’s record victory over New Zealand, Kolisi shared a special moment with Savea. He visited the All Blacks captain’s home and enjoyed a family meal together. The scene was warm, cheerful, and full of mutual respect. Their families sat side by side, enjoying food and laughter. Kolisi later posted photos on Instagram, writing simply, “My brother @ardiesavea.” His words captured their strong friendship.

On the pitch, they are fearless leaders and rivals. Off it, they display humility, kindness, and genuine affection. Their shirt swap symbolised more than tradition. It highlighted rugby’s ability to unite beyond national colours. Transitioning from battle to brotherhood, both men set a shining example.

They show young fans that competition does not erase respect. Instead, it builds stronger connections. In a sport often defined by collisions, these moments matter. Rugby thrives because of rivalry, but it endures through relationships.

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A post shared by Siya Kolisi (@siyakolisi)

Fans cherish the friendship

After the Springboks cptain Siya Kolisi visted All Blacks captain Ardie Savea’s family after record win, fans loved it.

@BokOnTour “This is why rugby is the best sport in the world”

@A.J.P. “Two leaders in Christ. Jesus is King Halleluja”

@A•Afamasaga “Two absolute legends of the game!! ”

@The Jersey Curator “Both men are such gentlemen. They truly are great on the field as well as off it! Hope our sport is blessed with more players like them in the future! ”