“It Hurts Us”: Kolisi Pens Emotional Farewell To Durban Fans After ‘Tough’ Sharks Stint
Siya Kolisi, the two-time Rugby World Cup-winning Springbok captain and global icon, has opened up about a challenging season with the Sharks as his time at the Durban-based club draws to a close.
The Sharks’ campaign has fallen short of expectations, with the team currently sitting 10th on the United Rugby Championship table. With their playoff hopes now out of reach, the remaining fixtures against Benetton Rugby and Zebre Parma will be about salvaging pride and ending the season on a positive note.
Reflecting on the season, Kolisi did not shy away from acknowledging the team’s shortcomings.
“It’s been a tough week as we have not made the top eight. We are really disappointed, especially with the group that we have. We definitely should have qualified for the playoffs. We have no excuses for that,” said Kolisi.
It has been a turbulent year for the Durban outfit, marked by changes in the coaching setup. JP Pietersen stepped into the coaching role, replacing John Plumtree, as the Sharks attempted to adopt a new playing philosophy.
While there were bright spots — including a notable double over their coastal rivals, the Stormers — inconsistency, particularly in away matches, proved costly.
Despite the disappointment, the Springbok captain emphasized the importance of finishing the season strongly.
“We want to make sure we finish the season strong. It hurts us that the fans have supported us and we could not deliver for the club. We should be doing better than we did this season,” he said.
Looking ahead to their next challenge, Kolisi highlighted the threat posed by Benetton, who are currently 13th and just three points behind the Sharks. With only a couple of matches remaining, he believes a strong finish could lay the foundation for future success.
“We have a big challenge this weekend with Benetton. They are a good team who have beaten some big teams this season,” he said.
“If we finish strong, the guys can build on that going forward.”
Beyond the results on the field, Kolisi also reflected emotionally on his time in Durban, expressing gratitude to both the club and the people of KwaZulu-Natal as he prepares to return to the Stormers at the end of the season.
“It will be hard to say goodbye to the boys,” said Kolisi.
“It’s been a special place, and special thanks must go to the people of KZN, who welcomed me and my family. My kids love coming here and enjoy supporting the team. They love the team, but even more so, they love the city itself,” he added.
“Thank you for making us feel like we are part of the family. We will always support the boys from afar.”
“I am grateful to the Sharks for everything they have done for me. They have supported me in every way and understand how important family is.”
As Kolisi prepares for the next chapter of his career back in Cape Town, his departure marks the end of a significant, if challenging, stint with the Sharks — one defined as much by personal connection as by on-field ambition.
