Springbok and Cell C Sharks captain Siya Kolisi is one of the most recognizable faces in the game today.
A celebrated player on the pitch having led the Springboks to victory during the 2019 Rugby World Cup, Kolisi has gone on to transcend the sport away from the pitch.
Signing with Jay-Z’s Roc Nation, Kolisi’s name has become synonymous with rugby excellence even with people unfamiliar with the sport.
Now plying his trade in Durban with the Sharks following a long run with Western Province and the Stormers, Kolisi played a key role in his side’s 50 – 35 win over Irish powerhouse Munster.
Having secured the significant win in their maiden Heineken Champions Cup knockout appearance, the Sharks will travel to France to tackle five-time champions Toulouse in the quarterfinals.
Speaking post-match, Kolisi said, “We did well, it was a tough outing, it was very hot there, but we knew what we were doing out there.
Turning his focus towards Munster, Kolisi said, “They are a great side, they’ve got a great history in this competition.”
The week prior to their impressive showing against Munster, the Sharks put in a flat performance against Welsh side Scarlets in their United Rugby Championship clash.
“As a team, if you can’t get up from what you did last week then you have no right to be in the competition.
“I am really proud of the way we stood up. The one special thing is the people of Durban, the people of KZN (Kwazulu-Natal).
“The energy they give us is huge, we are so grateful for them and hopefully we will be back next weekend if the Bulls do their job.”
When pressed as to whether he would be supporting the Bulls, Kolisi simply smiled before responding, “I love South Africa.”
Clearly driving to make the sport bigger and more mainstream, World Rugby are lucky to have a star such as Kolisi in their ranks.
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