Siya Kolisi welcomes new talent to Springboks squad with open arms
NEW ERA Springbok captain Siya Kolisi warmly welcomes new talent like Ntokozo Makhaza to the squad as they work towards the 2027 Rugby World Cup, highlighting the importance of grassroots talent. Picture: Alche Greef/BackpagePix
Image: Alche Greef/BackpagePix
As the Springboks begin their road to the 2027 Rugby World Cup (RWC) in earnest, it’s meant that coach Rassie Erasmus has cast the net wide as he hopes to harness all the talent in SA rugby at the moment.
It’s meant that a player like Ntokozo Makhaza has been included in the Springbok squad for the upcoming internationals.
The backline player Makhaza is not a professional rugby player, but is the all-time top points scorer in the Varsity with the University of Cape Town.
The 23-year-old is the perfect example of a player who will likely not feature soon for the Boks, but could well be a contender for the 2027 squad. Springbok skipper Siya Kolisi welcomed additions like Makhaza to the team.
Kolisi Praises New Talent in Squad and Embraces Leadership Role
“I’m so happy for the new players in the squad,” Kolisi told SportsBoom.co.za.
“Coach Rassie rewarded guys who performed well this season. A perfect example is Ntokozo [Makhaza] and just look at the way he played in the Varsity Cup.
“He’s been in the system. He worked hard in camp. And it’s not just him but there are a number of new players who have incredible talent. It’s something to be proud of. It shows that no matter where you’re playing, whether it’s Varsity Cup or club level, our coach is watching.”
Though the double RWC-winning skipper Kolisi will be 36 by the next quadrennial showpiece, there’s every indication he will still be the man to lead the team.
Kolisi hoped to help the new blood in the squad in whatever way he could.
“It’s very cool to see this transition. I’ll be there to encourage them all the way.”