It’s well documented that Springboks skipper Siya Kolisi and All Blacks’ Ardie Savea have a great relationship off the pitch, not what you would perhaps expect between two players from countries with such a long history of rivalry.
In an Instagram post this week, Kolisi posted a photo of the two players together with family along with the caption: “As iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another ~ Proverbs 27:17”
The post by Kolisi to his 1.3million followers on the social media platform has since gone viral and gained over 140,000 likes.
Last month, ahead of their Rugby Championship clash at Ellis Park, Kolisi spoke about their relationship in detail.
On the field we give everything
“The feeling is mutual. We’re very good friends. We get along really well. We keep in touch all the time and we respect each other. Especially on the field. I want to make sure I give him everything I have,” said Kolisi.
“That’s been the rivalry between us and New Zealand. On the field we give everything, and after the game that there’s mutual respect. Me and Ardie have just got closer and closer over the years.
Though both players were captain of their respective countries at the same time, there was never a hint of easing up from either forward.
“People think we might go half-heartedly against each other, but it’s nothing like that. I will gain his respect by giving everything, and vice versa. It’s always a tough battle.”
The Springboks would go on to beat the All Blacks in both their encounters on South African soil, as the men in green and gold completed four victories in a row over the New Zealanders for the first time.
Whether he’s playing the All Blacks or any other opposition, @Springboks skipper Siya Kolisi says he gives ‘absolutely everything’ every time he puts on the Green and Gold jersey.
— IOL Sport (@IOLsport) August 30, 2024
📽️: @Golfhackno1 pic.twitter.com/bsjo5AlkR0