Siya Kolisi, the iconic Springbok captain, is set to achieve a momentous milestone – his 100th Springbok cap! This comes as South Africa prepares for a colossal clash against France in Paris this Saturday. But Kolisi isn't stopping there; he has his sights set on even greater achievements.
In an interview with supersport.com last year, Kolisi expressed his belief that he has another World Cup in him. He dreams of leading his team to a historic three-peat victory in Australia in 2027. What makes Kolisi such an exceptional leader? Let's delve into some key aspects of his leadership, gleaned from his own words and experiences.
Humility and Shared Leadership
One of Kolisi's defining traits is his humility and willingness to empower others. This was evident in his very first game as Bok captain. England surged ahead with an early 20-point lead at Ellis Park. It was also Rassie Erasmus’ first big game as coach, and the Boks were on the brink of a disastrous start.
"I had no idea what to do. So I had to look to Duane (Vermeulen) and all the other guys who were on the field at that time," Kolisi revealed in a podcast with Kyle Brown. This demonstrates his ability to recognize his limitations and rely on the strengths of his teammates.
Leading Through Faith and Inspiration
Kolisi's leadership extends beyond the rugby field. He emphasizes the importance of finding personal meaning and inspiration. "I don’t speak much. I am not the type of guy that will do those Any Given Sunday speeches before a match. I have started reading the Bible because it is something that means a lot to me. Each team has a theme of the week and I will try and find a verse that works for me in that regard. I started doing it with the Springboks that day," he explained.
Siya Kolisi's leadership is a blend of humility, empowerment, and personal conviction. He embodies the spirit of the Springboks and inspires not only his teammates but also the entire nation. As he steps onto the field for his 100th cap, South Africa stands united behind their captain, ready to witness history in the making. Go Bokke!