Siya Kolisi ready for All Blacks return after ‘toughest’ mental battle

Springbok captain Siya Kolisi says he is fully fit and ready to face the All Blacks in Saturday’s second Test of the Greatest Rivalry Series in Cape Town, after overcoming the mental challenges of returning from injury.

Kolisi was initially named in the South Africa side at number six alongside Paul de Villiers when the team was announced on Monday. However, his involvement remained subject to completing the Springboks’ fitness protocols.

The captain successfully came through those requirements and will take his place in the starting team for the match at 17:10 on Saturday.

His return means De Villiers has been left out of the matchday 23. Cameron Hanekom will provide loose-forward cover from the bench, while Deon Fourie will offer cover at hooker as well as adding further experience among the replacements.

Kolisi confirmed on Friday that he was fully fit ahead of the important second Test.

“I feel good and strong. The toughest part was more the mental battle,” said Kolisi.

“You know you’re always going to heal, so it’s more the mental side that is challenging because you don’t know in which game you’re going to be back.

“Fortunately, I had good support from the coaching staff, my teammates, and our medical team, so I’m really happy to be back and able to play this game.”

The Springboks go into the match needing a response after falling 1-0 behind in the four-Test series. Kolisi’s return gives South Africa the benefit of having their captain back in the team as they attempt to level the contest against their long-standing rivals.

His presence is also expected to bring additional stability to the side after his period on the sidelines. The captain has now completed the necessary checks and will be available to lead the Springboks in what promises to be another high-profile meeting with New Zealand.

The selection change also clarifies the make-up of the South African bench. With Kolisi restored to the matchday squad, De Villiers misses out, while Hanekom and Fourie provide the cover required among the loose forwards and at hooker.

The match is the second encounter in the Greatest Rivalry Series, with the All Blacks holding the advantage after winning the opening Test. South Africa must therefore win in Cape Town to prevent New Zealand from extending its lead in the four-match series.

Kolisi said the support he received from the coaching staff, his team-mates and the medical team had helped him through the difficult period. He will now return to the Springboks on Saturday, with the hosts seeking to draw level.

Kick-off is at 17:10.