Jesse Kriel Reacts After Being Named Springboks Captain Ahead of Siya Kolisi for All Blacks Tie

• Springboks star Jesse Kriel has reacted after being named captain ahead of Siya Kolisi for their clash against New Zealand this weekend
• The 31-year-old has captained the Springboks on a few occasions this season, but it would be the first time leading the team with Siya present in the squad
• The two-time Rugby World Cup winner also commented on being allowed to lead the team in a big game against the All Blacks of New Zealand

Springboks stand-in captain Jesse Kriel has commented on being chosen to lead the South Africa rugby team against the All Blacks of New Zealand, despite the return of Siya Kolisi to the squad.

Rassie Erasmus announced the squad to face the All Blacks at Eden Park on Saturday, September 6, 2025, with some notable names missing from the list due to various issues.

Kolisi was initially expected to miss this encounter due to a minor injury, but was included at the last minute. Another player who earned a late call-up was Faf de Klerk, while Bongi Mbonambi was dropped due to personal issues.

Read also

Springboks star ruled out for the year ahead of crucial All Blacks clash

Kriel reacts after being named Boks captain over Kolisi

Kriel, who recently showed off his new car worth R2.2 million, has stylishly brushed off the importance of being chosen to lead the Springboks ahead of Kolisi this weekend against New Zealand.

The Boks star shared his thoughts when asked about the leadership duties, claiming Siya is still the undisputed captain.

"First and foremost, I believe it truly reflects the exceptional leadership Siya brings to this team. Everyone recognises that Siya is our captain; he leads from the front, and his presence sets the tone for us all," he said.

"That said, leadership within this group isn’t limited to one person. We all step up when needed. This weekend, I’ve been entrusted with that responsibility, and it’s something I hold in the highest regard."

The 31-year-old also confirmed how honoured he is to lead the Springboks for the first time against the All Blacks.

Read also

Kitshoff calls on Erasmus to shake up Springboks’ strategy ahead of Eden Park showdown

"Leading this team is not just an honour, it’s a duty I take seriously. But I’ve said it before: leadership is shared right across this squad," he added.

"It goes beyond the matchday 23. The entire squad, every coach, every support member, there’s leadership at every level.

"To be given this opportunity is incredibly humbling. It’s not something I necessarily expected, but my focus remains on performing my role and delivering what’s required of me on the field. The rest follows naturally. I’m genuinely honoured and proud to be in this position."

Springboks star ruled out of the year ahead of All Blacks clash

Briefly News earlier reported that a Springboks star has been ruled out of the remainder of the season after getting injured in training ahead of the All Blacks' clash.

The rugby star was expected to start the game, but was replaced after suffering a knee injury while preparing for the match.

Source: Briefly News