Siya Kolisi: Springboks Captain Called a ‘Big Beast’ Ahead of Stormers Clash Against Edinburgh

• Stormers coach John Dobson praised Siya Kolisi's immediate impact after the flanker rejoined the Cape club following Springbok duties
• Dobson highlighted how Kolisi's physical presence and leadership have already begun lifting the squad ahead of Friday's URC match
• The Springboks captain skipped additional rest and went straight into the starting line-up for the Stormers' clash against Edinburgh

Stormers head coach John Dobson has spoken openly about the effect Siya Kolisi is having at the Cape club, describing the Springbok flanker as a physically imposing force whose influence reaches well beyond the playing field.

Kolisi rejoined the Stormers after completing his international commitments with South Africa and passed up any additional recovery time. He goes straight into the starting line-up for Friday night's United Rugby Championship fixture against Edinburgh, the club's second match of an opening overseas tour.

Dobson on Kolisi's leadership and physical presence

Dobson was candid about the breadth of Kolisi's contribution since linking up with his new teammates.

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"He's not an out-and-out stealer; he gets turnovers through his tackling and counter-rucking. In terms of leadership, he's got a big role to play, probably around the integration of the Springboks and setting standards. I could see him in the warm-up last week … His presence, just the smile and the songs and everything, it lifts the team."

The coach was equally clear that on-field performance remains the central expectation.

"There's no question that the rugby contribution is what we're after and what we need tomorrow," he added.

Kolisi's size catches Dobson off guard

One aspect of Kolisi's return that struck Dobson was the flanker's sheer physicality.

"What I can't get over with Siya, and it's going to sound like a silly point, is the size of him. He's an openside flank, maybe not the world's most traditional openside flank, but he's a big beast. He's certainly a bigger man than he was when he left here. He's a really big presence, and I think that's going to be useful on the 4G."

Dobson suggested Kolisi's stature makes him a non-traditional but highly effective openside, and that his bulk could prove particularly advantageous on artificial turf against Edinburgh.

Source: Briefly News