Springboks captain Siya Kolisi hailed his team’s ability not to panic as they dug in to secure a 32-17 victory over France in Paris, despite being down to 14 players.
The flanker was playing his 100th match for the Green and Gold and was a spectator in the second period after being replaced at half-time by head coach Rassie Erasmus.
It’s been revealed that his earlier-than-usual departure from the field was due to the red card issued to Lood de Jager, with Erasmus subsequently eager to change his pack.
Victory on his 100th
That proved a masterstroke as Kolisi was able to watch a stunning second-half performance from his team-mates, as he ultimately celebrated his 100th run-out in style.
Speaking after the victory on his 100th Test cap, Kolisi said: “A lot of my family were here and people who have helped me along the way, and I’m very grateful for that.
“That said, my focus was on the game because we knew how much they wanted to win this match.
“I must give credit to the team, they really played well, and I’m proud of them and our coaching staff for making plans and not panicking. That’s what makes this team special.”
Addressing being replaced by Ruan Nortje, the flanker revealed how the change came about as he was approached by Erasmus in the dressing rooms during the interval.
“On a day like today, having to leave the field was a fitting example of putting the team first,” he continued.
“When coach Rassie came to ask me, it was a case of putting the emotion aside because the team comes first, and I applaud them for the way they fought.”
Kolisi was hugely complementary to his head coach who was celebrating his own milestone in the fixture against France, lauding what he has done for team and country.
All about the team
“Today was his 50th game as (South Africa) head coach, and he never made it about him this week. It was all about the team,” he explained.
“So, thank you, coach, for all that you do for us. You have no idea what you’ve done, not just in rugby terms, but in the mindset in which we see each other and our country.
“When you speak, we take so much from you, so thank you for all that you do. We really appreciate it.”