As all eyes turned to the big showdown between the Springboks and France in Paris, the moment was even more memorable for captain Siya Kolisi.
The Springbok flank recently returned to the Stade de France, the same stadium where he won the 2023 Rugby World Cup. While the moment carries the history of the iconic moment of two years ago, Siya Kolisi recently returned to the venue to celebrate yet another important milestone in his career – his 100th international match with the Springboks.
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It was one of the most talked-about matches of the year. France is the current champion of the Six Nations in the Northern Hemisphere, while the Springboks are currently reigning as the kings of the South after retaining the Rugby Championship.
In a match that would ultimately determine who the best team in the world is at this point, it was the Springboks who reigned supreme, winning the match by 32 -17.
Cheslin pays tribute to Siya
Following the epic victory over their northern rivals, wing Cheslin Kolbe shared a heartfelt tribute to his long-time friend. The two have known one another since their days at the Stormers, and have each gone on to achieve great success in their careers.
Taking to Instagram, he wrote:
“What to say: Mad respect my brother from Zwide to the Global stage. Your humility and selflessness is out of this world.
“You don’t get the praise you deserve on the field for what you do, but we all know the impact you have every time you wear that GREEN & GOLD JERSEY. Thank you for everything you do and mean to us. 100 not out. May God continue to bless you and your family.”
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Another person who spent countless moments with Siya, and also welcomed him onto the field for his first Springbok match, is Eben Etzebeth.
The lock shared some heartfelt words of his own.
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Siya is now part of an elite group of Springbok players to become a centurion, with Eben being the most capped of all.
Also see: Jurgen Klopp’s Heartfelt Message To Siya Kolisi On His 100th Test Cap