Siya Kolisi Prepares to Compete for Place in Springboks Squad Ahead of Challenging 2026 Season
- Siya Kolisi is looking forward to fighting for his place in the Springboks squad ahead of the 2026 challenge for the team
- The Springboks captain is aware of how competitive it is to make the South African men's rugby national team squad
- Rassie Erasmus' side are preparing to face some tough Tests in 2026, with the 2027 Rugby World Cup also in their minds
Siya Kolisi may wear the Springbok captain’s armband, but he is under no illusions that past success will count for little as the reigning world champions prepare for an intense 2026 campaign on the road to next year’s Rugby World Cup in Australia.
Source: Getty Images
The skipper has admitted that competition among South Africa’s loose forwards is heating up, with several players delivering standout performances across the various tournaments currently underway.
Kolisi led the Springboks to another Rugby Championship in 2025, playing a major role in all their games, while the team also went unbeaten during the end-of-the-year tour
It has also been confirmed that Kolisi will soon swap Durban for Cape Town once again, returning to rugby beneath Table Mountain after spending a productive spell with the Sharks at Kings Park.
DON'T MISS IT: Stay Away From Fake News With Our Short, Free Fact-Checking Course. Join And Get Certified!
Kolisi ready to compete for his place
With South African franchises enjoying a two-week pause in the URC due to the start of the Six Nations, Kolisi welcomed the opportunity to recharge. The respite will be brief, however, as he returns to Sharks duty for a pair of domestic clashes in Gauteng, determined to keep his place at flank in the national squad.
The Springboks face a demanding schedule of 13 Tests this year, and Kolisi is keen to ensure he is physically and mentally ready. Although it is improbable that Rassie Erasmus will select him for every match, the captain is expected to play a key role in the July curtain-raiser against England at Ellis Park in the Nations Championship.
Later in the season, during August and September, Kolisi is set to lead South Africa in Rugby’s Greatest Rivalry against New Zealand, with a four-Test series comprising three home fixtures and one encounter in the United States.
Source: Getty Images
Kolisi on preparation before the 2026 challenge
Off the field, Kolisi was introduced on Thursday, February 5, 2026, as a brand ambassador for Pick n Pay and remains committed to motivating fans beyond rugby. Currently enjoying a short holiday in Cape Town, he is focused on spending quality time with loved ones before returning to full training.
“I’m hoping this break helps me recover so I can come back refreshed and ready to work hard,” Kolisi said. “I want to continue earning my place in the Springbok side.
“The battle among the loose forwards is intense right now. Everyone is performing well, which is great for the team because nobody can afford to relax. There are so many players having outstanding seasons, so the pressure is always on — but I’m embracing that challenge.
“This year is massive for us as a group. It’s probably one of the toughest schedules we’ve faced. We know exactly what lies ahead. The opening three Tests are part of the Nations Championship, followed by the series against the All Blacks, and then three overseas matches that also count towards the title.
“The Championship adds an extra edge to the season and gives us something special to aim for. I’m really looking forward to it.”
Source: Getty Images
SA celebrities hail Siya Kolisi
Briefly News also reported that two South African celebrities hailed Siya Kolisi after moving on from his divorce and entering a new relationship.
The series of beautiful moments Siya shared with Rachel John during their time in Zimbabwe went viral on social media.
PAY ATTENTION: Follow Briefly News on Twitter and never miss the hottest topics! Find us at @brieflyza!
Source: Briefly News
