We want to give SA a proper goodbye: Kolisi

September 4, 2026 8

Springbok captain, Siya Kolisi, says Saturday’s Test against the All Blacks at FNB Stadium is about more than winning, it is a chance to repay a debt to the people of Soweto.

Kolisi spoke movingly on Friday afternoon about the sacrifices made by the community living in the shadow of the famous Calabash.

“We’re thankful for the people connected to that place who fought for the freedom that lets me and him [assistant coach Mzwandile Stick] sit here today,” he said, adding that the current generation had benefited from freedoms secured by those who endured struggles they themselves had never experienced.

“Giving our best tomorrow, and using every opportunity we get, is part of us saying thank you.”

The Springbok skipper recalled the deep footballing history tied to the ground, referencing memories from the 1996 African Cup of Nations, and said the connection runs far beyond rugby.

He described homeless residents rising to cheer as the team bus passes, and locals giving up what little they have so others can watch the match.

“It hasn’t always gone our way in Soweto, we didn’t win the first time we played here, but the numbers that show up at the stadium, and the vibe inside it, we feel it,” he said. “We hope we can give them a good memory, not just with words but with our efforts tomorrow.”

South Africa and New Zealand have each claimed one victory in the Rugby’s Greatest Rivalry series so far, with the fourth and final Test set to take place in Baltimore, United States, next Saturday.

The clash between the Boks and the All Blacks is scheduled for 17h10.