Springboks Captain Siya Kolisi Celebrates Kolbe and Etzebeth on Their Birthdays
- Springboks captain Siya Kolisi honoured teammates Cheslin Kolbe and Eben Etzebeth with heartfelt birthday tributes
- Kolbe and Etzebeth, key figures in South Africa’s rugby success, celebrated milestones both on and off the field
- Etzebeth’s family joined the celebrations, sharing touching messages that highlighted love, family, and life beyond rugby
Springboks captain Siya Kolisi took to social media to celebrate two of his closest teammates, winger Cheslin Kolbe and lock Eben Etzebeth, as they marked their birthdays.
Source: Getty Images
Kolisi, who reacted to his former wife Rachel 'betrayal trauma' Tiktok post on social media with bible verses, also went spiritual when celebrating the Springboks star players.
Known for his leadership both on and off the field, Kolisi shared heartfelt messages recognising their contributions to South African rugby and the deep bonds they share.
On Tuesday, 28 October 2025, Kolisi dedicated a post to Kolbe, the reigning 2024 South Africa Rugby Men’s Player of the Year, writing:
“The righteous choose their friends carefully, but the way of the wicked leads them astray. I love you, my brother, and hope you have a blessed day. Thank you for the person you are on and off the field. May God keep blessing you. You stand so tall in all you do, but just not by physical height 😂❤️🙏🏾.” Kolbe, fresh from the Rugby Championship triumph in New Zealand, was warmly welcomed by his family on his return home.
On Wednesday, 29 October 2025, Kolisi honoured Etzebeth with a message quoting Proverbs 18:24:
“One who has unreliable friends soon comes to ruin, but there is a friend who sticks closer than a brother. Happy birthday, my brother. It’s been 16 years of friendship now, and I’ve loved how it has become a brotherhood. Watching you grow into an icon in our sport, and most importantly as an incredible human being, has been amazing. Love you long time, Langes.”
Family tributes and special moments
Etzebeth also received birthday wishes from his wife, singer and actress Anlia Etzebeth. The couple recently welcomed their second child, adding to the joy of the celebration. Anlia shared on Instagram:
“Thank you for everything you do for us and all your hard work. Our daughters and I are so grateful and very proud of you. Thank you for carrying me and for all the adventures that were and are still waiting for us. Miss you and love you.”
As the Springboks gear up for their Autumn Tour opener against Japan on 1 November, Kolisi’s tributes highlight not only the team’s on-field excellence but also the enduring friendships and family bonds that define South African rugby.
Source: Getty Images
Springboks veteran faces another lengthy recovery
Briefly News previously reported that a veteran forward has found himself on the sidelines once again following a devastating bicep injury that required surgery.
The 39-year-old, who played a pivotal role for the Springboks during the 2023 Rugby World Cup, now faces yet another uncertain road to recovery. The veteran's resilience has long defined his career.
Source: Briefly News
