Siya Kolisi Returns: Springboks Gear Up for Ireland Test Series

Siya Kolisi, the two-time World Cup-winning captain, joins South Africa’s squad for the upcoming Test series against Ireland. Kolisi’s initial unavailability for the recent win over Wales, due to his club obligations, highlights his pivotal role and leadership in the Springboks squad. South Africa eagerly anticipates his return as they prepare to face Ireland in a highly anticipated series.

Coach Rassie Erasmus named Siya Kolisi among 39 players ahead of matches against the Six Nations champions, with fixtures scheduled in Pretoria on July 6 and Durban a week later. The world champions will also face Portugal in Bloemfontein on July 20. Erasmus expressed a preference for Springbok captains to be based in South Africa but acknowledged Kolisi’s exceptional leadership qualities.

The squad also sees the return of fit-again wing Cheslin Kolbe and center Lukhanyo Am, alongside three uncapped players: hookers Johan Grobbelaar and Jan-Hendrik Wessels, and number eight Phepsi Buthelezi.

Despite injuries affecting key players like prop Steven Kitshoff and locks Jean Kleyn and Lood de Jager, Erasmus has bolstered the squad with players such as wing Kurt-Lee Arendse and loose forward Marco van Staden, both from the Bulls following their United Rugby Championship final.

Erasmus also named 14 players in a standby squad as part of their preparation for future challenges, emphasizing squad depth as they build towards the 2027 Rugby World Cup.