Siya Kolisi has carried the Springboks with pride for many years. He became the first black captain of South Africa in 2018. His leadership inspired unity in the nation and dominance on the field. Under his guidance, the Springboks won the 2019 Rugby World Cup.
Four years later, he repeated the feat with another World Cup triumph. Kolisi’s style mixed resilience, tactical awareness, and genuine connection with his teammates. He brought belief to fans who craved consistency and strength from their heroes.
Every trophy lifted under his watch strengthened his legendary reputation. Kolisi’s captaincy created unforgettable memories in South African rugby history. His influence extended beyond sport and touched the global stage.
Siya Kolisi Lost the Springboks Captaincy Ahead of All Blacks Clash
This week marked a new chapter in Springbok leadership. Jesse Kriel will captain the team against the All Blacks. The decision surprised many as Kolisi still starts the match. Kolisi and Kriel began their Springbok journeys almost at the same time.
Both grew into vital leaders, but Kriel now takes the armband. The All Blacks clash is set for Eden Park in Auckland. The Springboks have not beaten New Zealand there for decades. Kriel’s task is enormous, but his confidence has grown steadily.
Kolisi, meanwhile, focuses purely on his role as a starting flanker. He remains influential but now without the responsibility of captaincy.
The move hints at a transition in Springbok leadership. Kolisi’s time as captain may be reaching its natural close. Fans respect his years of service and inspirational leadership. However, rugby demands constant renewal to remain competitive and sharp. Kriel now shoulders the mission to end the Eden Park drought. Kolisi stands ready to fight for the team without the armband. The baton has passed, but his presence remains vital for victory.
Fans react to the lineup
After Rassie Erasmus released the Springboks lineup to face the All Blacks with Siya Kolisi losing the captaincy to Jesse Kriel, fans had a lot to say.
@Jordan Buhrs “Feels like a team to break the Eden Park curse 
”
@X “Very happy with this .. lots of coverage, Hooker to score winning try with an assist from SFM deft touch 80th min 23 – 21”
@khumezzy “Willie le roux … Kriel captain when Siya starts ? 4 poc in the entire 23”
@Peter Bruce “Kriel captain while Kolisi plays?”
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The post Breaking: Siya Kolisi loses Springboks captaincy ahead of All Blacks clash appeared first on iHarare News.
