“I Tell Them To Spend It!” — Kolisi Jokes About Wealth
Springbok captain Siya Kolisi believes South Africa’s growing depth is one of the team’s greatest strengths, with fierce competition for places driving standards higher while experienced players help prepare the next generation for the demands of international rugby.
As the world champions continue to introduce exciting young talent into the national setup, Kolisi says it has become the responsibility of the senior players to pass on the standards and culture that have defined the Springboks’ success in recent years.
When asked about helping younger players cope with the attention and newfound financial rewards that come with becoming a Springbok, Kolisi initially joked that his advice is simple: “I tell them to spend it,” drawing laughter before speaking more seriously about the leadership role senior players have embraced.
“It’s been really good. Everything starts from the top,” Kolisi said.
“The biggest thing is that the team is the most important, and we’ve been here for a long time, so we need to pass on as much information as we can. When we’re not training, we need to make sure the guys are up to standard because you never know who is going to play or who will be needed.”
Kolisi has been encouraged by the fearless approach shown by the emerging players, particularly during training sessions alongside the Junior Springboks.
“The energy they bring to the team is truly amazing. When we train with the under-20s, the intensity is really high because they are fearless and don’t know what the limit is. It’s been exciting,” he said.
The Springbok skipper also praised the work being done by Junior Springbok head coach Kevin Foote, saying the country’s production line of talent continues to impress.
“It’s been amazing to see the standards the under-20s are working at. Coach Kevin Foote is doing a really great job with them, and we’re looking forward to seeing what they can do at the World Cup.”
The influx of young talent has only intensified competition within the Springbok squad, something Kolisi believes has eliminated any danger of complacency.
“It’s the best thing that could’ve happened to the squad,” he said.
“It’s huge just being selected to be part of the team. Complacency can creep in, whether as a team or as an individual, when you feel nobody can take your place.”
Instead, Kolisi says the healthy rivalry has created an environment where players push one another while remaining united by a common goal.
“The good thing with us is that there are so many guys on the same level. We’re competing, but we’re also helping each other at the same time. We always say that the team comes first.
“Sometimes someone gets an opportunity, and you root for him because you want him to do well.”
With Rassie Erasmus continuing to expand the Springboks’ player pool ahead of the 2027 Rugby World Cup, Kolisi believes the growing depth will prove invaluable when injuries inevitably occur.
“Even with the juniors coming through, Coach Rassie can call on any of them if something happens to any of us. That’s a good thing because we know injuries happen, and we all understand what the long-term plan is.”
