Siya Kolisi Showers Praise on 2 Springboks Stars After Their Victory Over All Blacks in Cape Town

• Springboks captain Siya Kolisi congratulated Ox Nché and Pieter-Steph du Toit on reaching major Test milestones during the Cape Town victory
• The Springboks of South Africa levelled the series against New Zealand with a win in the second Test on Saturday, 29 August 2026
• Kolisi revealed the third Test at FNB Stadium in Soweto will be a first for several players in the squad

Springboks captain Siya Kolisi paid tribute to prop Ox Nché and flank Pieter-Steph du Toit following South Africa's second Test victory over New Zealand in Cape Town on Saturday, 29 August 2026, with the two players reaching their 50th and 100th Test caps respectively during the match.

The win at Cape Town levelled the series at one apiece after the Springboks suffered a defeat at Ellis Park the week before. Kolisi credited the coaching staff and the support of South African fans as key factors in the team's response.

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Kolisi's tribute to Nché and Du Toit

Nché’s 50th Test appearance received special recognition from captain Siya Kolisi, who praised the prop’s remarkable development and his emergence as one of the game’s elite players.

Kolisi also highlighted the significance of Pieter-Steph du Toit’s milestone, particularly considering the flanker's difficult journey back from two ACL injuries.

He recalled visiting du Toit in hospital during his rehabilitation and expressed his happiness at seeing the forward reach such heights. Kolisi described du Toit as a highly valued member of the squad who consistently gives everything for the team, making the achievement even more meaningful for both the player and South Africa.

Attention turns to Soweto decider

With the series now level, the Springboks will face New Zealand in the third Test at FNB Stadium in Soweto. Kolisi highlighted the importance of the match, particularly for squad members who will be making their first appearance at the iconic venue.

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The Springboks captain said the Soweto Test would be a special occasion, especially for those experiencing the stadium for the first time.

Kolisi also acknowledged the physical and mental demands of repeatedly facing the All Blacks, stressing that playing New Zealand four times in a series presents an especially difficult challenge.

Erasmus' warning adds context to ranking shock

Briefly News also reported that Rassie Erasmus had admitted the Springboks were feeling the pressure before the Ellis Park showdown with the All Blacks.

Erasmus said ahead of the Test that he was nervous, while describing New Zealand's approach as fast and intense. He also warned that the All Blacks wanted to move the ball quickly and challenge South Africa around the breakdown.

Proofreading by Kelly Lippke, copy editor at Briefly.co.za.

Source: Briefly News