Springbok captain Siya Kolisi is set to make his eagerly anticipated return to Test rugby when South Africa faces Georgia at Mbombela Stadium on Saturday, closing out the Castle Lager Incoming Series in spectacular fashion.
The double Rugby World Cup-winning captain, making his first appearance for the Boks this season, expressed his excitement about returning to the venue where his international career began over a decade ago.
“It’s always fantastic to play here,” Kolisi said about the Mbombela Stadium atmosphere. “The vibe at the stadium is amazing, and we know that it will be similar to last week in Gqeberha, where the crowd really got involved and inspired us.”
Three debutants set for historic Springbok caps
Saturday’s match will mark a significant milestone as well with three uncapped players set to earn their first Test appearances. Boan Venter and Neethling Fouche will start as props, while Marnus van der Merwe takes the hooker position in an entirely new front row combination.
Kolisi dismissed concerns about the inexperienced front row, emphasizing the collective strength of the pack and the extensive preparation the newcomers have undergone.
“I’m very proud of the guys earning their first Test caps,” the captain stated. “As a group, we feel there is enough experience in the team for them to know we have their backs. They’ve been training against the likes of Ox (Nche), Wilco (Louw), and Malcolm (Marx), among others.”
Georgia presents physical challenge for Springboks
Springbok assistant coach Mzwandile Stick highlighted the formidable challenge that Georgia will present, particularly in the set pieces where the Europeans have built their reputation.
“Georgia are a physical team, and they pride themselves on their set pieces, so we know having to match that will be the toughest part for us,” Stick explained. “I’ve been to Georgia, and I’ve seen how tough their players are.”
The coaching staff remains focused on continuous improvement, with Stick noting there’s still room for the team to grow despite their recent dominant 45-0 victory over Italy in Gqeberha.
Junior Springboks World championship final support
Both Kolisi and Stick took time to acknowledge the Junior Springboks ahead of their World Rugby U20 Championship final against New Zealand, scheduled for Saturday evening in Italy.
“They are definitely setting a standard, and it’s great to see how they are taking their opportunities,” Kolisi said, praising the young team’s fighting spirit and cohesion.
The junior team’s success has captured the attention of the senior squad, with Stick noting: “One can see that they know what it means to represent the country, and what really stands out for me is their fighting spirit and the cohesion in the team.”
The match kicks off on Saturday at 17:10 at the Mbombela Stadium in Nelspruit, and will be broadcast live on SuperSport.
The Junior Springboks’ World Rugby U20 Championship final against New Zealand kicks off at 20:30.
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