Springbok captain Siya Kolisi has made it clear he has no intention of stepping away from international rugby, insisting he is determined to lead South Africa’s bid for an unprecedented third consecutive Rugby World Cup title in 2027.
While Paul de Villiers enhanced his reputation with a string of impressive displays during the Nations Championship in Kolisi’s absence, the emergence of the rookie has not altered the captain’s mindset.
Kolisi, who missed the tournament through injury, has repeatedly stated that Australia 2027 remains his ultimate goal.
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Kolisi targets 2027 World Cup
Speaking about his future, the 35-year-old dismissed any suggestion that retirement is imminent.
“If I still feel as good as I feel today, I think I’ll be there because of the coaching and conditioning staff and medical teams.”
He also stressed that his motivation to keep playing remains as strong as ever.
“I feel like I can do anything and I don’t want to lose that. I don’t want to give that up.”
Kolisi has been consistent with that message since lifting the Webb Ellis Cup in Paris in 2023.
“Personally, nothing will change. I will still be available for selection. I really want to play.”
And when asked whether he could still be part of the Springboks’ 2027 campaign, his answer was equally emphatic.
“I still want to be there.”
Paul de Villiers gives Rassie Erasmus another option
Kolisi’s injury opened the door for Paul de Villiers, who took his chance during the Nations Championship with a series of mature performances that strengthened South Africa’s back-row depth.
Rather than seeing the youngster as a threat, Kolisi has welcomed the fierce competition created by Rassie Erasmus’ constant squad rotation.
The Springbok captain believes the system is extending the careers of senior players while ensuring the next generation is ready when called upon.
“The older guys are hungry for 2027,” Kolisi said previously, adding that the coaches’ rotation policy has helped keep experienced players fresh and in contention for another World Cup.
No retirement plans
Despite increasing competition in the loose forwards, Kolisi’s stance has not changed.
The double World Cup-winning captain remains focused on returning to full fitness and earning his place rather than relying on reputation.
With Erasmus having repeatedly insisted that selections are based on form rather than age, Kolisi knows there are no guarantees.
But one thing is certain: retirement is not on his agenda, and the Springbok skipper still has his sights firmly set on lifting the Webb Ellis Cup for a third successive time in Australia in 2027.
Springboks handed toughest route to 2027 Rugby World Cup final
South Africa’s quest for an unprecedented third successive Rugby World Cup title is beginning to take shape after the 2027 tournament draw was confirmed.
Rassie Erasmus’ side have been handed a favourable pool on paper, but the knockout stages promise far tougher challenges. We take a look at the Springboks’ projected route to the final and the obstacles standing between them and more history.
Pool stage draw
South Africa have been placed in Pool B alongside Italy, Georgia and Romania.
It looks like a favourable draw for the reigning world champions, with Italy expected to be their biggest rival for first place. Georgia’s physical approach and Romania’s powerful set piece should still demand respect, but South Africa will expect to top the group.
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Round of 16
The Springboks are currently projected to face the runner-up from Pool E, which is likely to be Japan or the USA depending on how that group develops.
Either side would be viewed as a manageable opponent, although South Africa will not have forgotten their famous defeat to Japan in 2015. They should still be expected to progress comfortably.
Quarter-finals
A quarter-final against one of the leading Tier 1 nations appears most likely, with New Zealand or Australia the probable opponents. England are an outside possibility, but that would require them to finish third in their pool, making that scenario unlikely.
Pool A is expected to be won by either New Zealand or Australia. While the All Blacks look stronger on paper, Australia will benefit from home advantage. Whoever emerges will provide South Africa’s first major challenge of the tournament.