Rassie Erasmus has made a major revelation about Siya Kolisi and the Springboks' captaincy for the upcoming Test season.
Siya Kolisi etched his name into history and rugby lore when he led the Springboks to back-to-back World Cup titles in 2019 and 2023 under the guidance of Rassie Erasmus and Jack Nienaber.
And with Kolisi still an active and influential Test match player, one might wonder why his reign as captain has become a subject of debate.
Well, Kolisi moved to Paris after the World Cup to join French giants Racing 92 on a lucrative contract. And while he is still a possibility for selection, Springbok rugby in general, and Rassie Erasmus in particular, have always preferred locally-based players to lead Test teams.
Rassie Erasmus talks about Siya Kolisi and my captaincy
For this reason, the Springbok coach has confirmed that he is considering his captaincy options ahead of the 2024 Test campaign.
“There are a lot of players who sign with overseas clubs who have a clause in their contract that they stop playing international rugby. Siya has not signed such a clause,” Erasmus said. Ta.
“That's the first thing that tells you he wants to play in South Africa. I think Kolisi is playing his best rugby. He seems really relaxed.
“I always want the captain to be local,” Erasmus explained. “Because we can spend a weekend together and plan together over the phone and on a plane.
“This is a special situation. Kolisi will be considered. He definitely wants it and is playing well enough. If it feels possible, there may be room for it. Hmm. But I still have to look into it.”