Siya Kolisi is set to make history as he takes the field for his 100th Test match for the Springboks when South Africa faces France at the Stade de France in Paris on Saturday, 8 November 2025.
The milestone places the inspirational captain among an elite group of Springbok greats, becoming only the ninth player in the team’s history to achieve a century of Test appearances.
He joins rugby icons such as Percy Montgomery, John Smit, Victor Matfield, Jean de Villiers, Bryan Habana, Beast Mtawarira, Eben Etzebeth, and Willie le Roux.
Kolisi’s journey from the township of Zwide near Port Elizabeth to captaining his nation on the global stage has inspired millions.
His story continues to embody resilience, leadership, and national pride.
The flanker made his Springbok debut in June 2013 against Scotland in Nelspruit, coming off the bench to deliver a man-of-the-match performance that signalled the arrival of a new South African rugby star.
His former coach, Heyneke Meyer, reflected on his early days with pride, saying Kolisi was “shy at first” but grew into “one of the greatest captains in world rugby, a leader whose influence stretches far beyond the pitch.”
Kolisi’s rise through the ranks is nothing short of extraordinary. Born into poverty, he has often described rugby as his “lifeline,” a sport that gave him purpose and hope.
After joining Western Province in 2010, his career quickly accelerated, culminating in one of South Africa’s most celebrated sporting stories.
In 2019, he became the first black captain to lead South Africa to a Rugby World Cup victory, a triumph that united a nation.
Four years later, he repeated the feat, guiding the Springboks to another World Cup title in 2023, cementing his legacy as one of the greatest leaders in rugby history.
As he prepares for his 100th Test, tributes have poured in from fans, teammates, and sports figures around the world.
Many have hailed Kolisi not only as a rugby legend but as a symbol of hope and unity for South Africa.