Siya Kolisi could go down as one of the greatest Springbok captains of all time, writes editor CRAIG LEWIS in the latest SA Rugby magazine, which is now on sale.
After a 12-year wait the Springboks have claimed another stunning 2-1 series win over the British & Irish Lions.
Not even the wildest rugby fantasist could have scripted the dramatic final scenes as Morne Steyn repeated his heroics from 2009 to slot a late match-winning penalty.
In our latest issue, we celebrate what an extraordinary tour it was between the Springboks and Lions, and analyse how the hosts managed to pull off a stunning series victory.
In particular, we take a closer look at the role played by Kolisi in leading the Boks through an extraordinary tour. What cannot be in any doubt is the fact Kolisi, over the past few months, has faced his sternest examination as a captain, player and in some sense, also as a sporting statesman. He has passed this test with flying colors.
There is no longer even a semblance of doubt about his credentials as the Springboks’ leader. Indeed, a sign of any great leader is the humility to accept when you need help, and at times to defer duties to other lieutenants who have different areas of expertise.
It’s this willingness to share leadership responsibilities that has always set Kolisi apart as a captain, and which is a major strength rather than a sign of any weakness.
There is nothing to suggest he won’t lead the Springboks through to the next World Cup, fitness and form permitting. And by the time Kolisi eventually hangs up his boots, there is every chance he will be remembered as one of the Boks’ all-time great captains.
Perhaps even with the potential – all things considered on and off the field – to become the greatest of them all.
The new magazine also features ratings for each Bok player who featured prominently in the Tests, as well as our selection of weird and wonderful moments.
One of the more fascinating duels during this series, in fact, came off the field as Warren Gatland and Rassie Erasmus both played their parts in so-called sideshows, and we unpack the influence this all had on the rugby and tour.
Of course, it can’t be forgotten that the Boks have now headed straight into Rugby Championship action, so we preview this highly anticipated tournament, identify the players to watch and look forward to the 100-year anniversary of Boks-All Blacks Tests.
Meanwhile, the Blitzboks unfortunately returned from Tokyo without an Olympic medal, but a new era is dawning for the Springbok Sevens side. Veteran coach Neil Powell is set to become the Sharks’ defence coach in 2022, and there are sure to be several changes on the Blitzboks scene as the team looks to return to the top of the sevens world game.
Make sure you get your hands on the latest issue!
