Siya Kolisi

🇿🇦South Africa
Union
Born: 16 June 1991
Birthplace: Port Elizabeth, South Africa
Position: Flanker
Club: Sharks
Siya Kolisi
🏉
80+
International Caps
Flanker
Position
12+
Test Tries
6'3"
Height
105kg
Weight
Sharks
Club

Playing Style

Siya Kolisi brings a distinctive approach to the flanker position. Their technical skills, combined with an instinctive understanding of the game's tactical demands, allow them to influence matches in ways that extend beyond their primary responsibilities.


Career Biography

Siya Kolisi's story transcends rugby. Born into poverty in the Zwide township of Port Elizabeth, Kolisi became the first black captain of the Springboks and led South Africa to consecutive Rugby World Cup titles in 2019 and 2023. His journey from township rugby fields to lifting the Webb Ellis Cup is one of the most inspiring narratives in the history of sport.

On the field, Kolisi is a supremely effective openside flanker whose work rate and defensive intensity set the tone for the Springbok pack. His ability to slow down opposition ball at the breakdown, combined with his tireless tackling across the full width of the field, makes him indispensable to South Africa's defensive structure.

Kolisi's leadership is his greatest quality. He leads by example through his actions on the field, but his ability to unite a diverse squad — and indeed a nation — behind a common purpose has been the defining feature of his captaincy. His impact on South African society extends far beyond the rugby pitch.


Videos

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Career Milestones

Early career
Emerged through the Sharks academy system
Int'l debut
First cap for South Africa
Established
Became a regular starter for South Africa
All Union Players TV Schedule