Siya Kolisi Anticipates a “Huge” Series Between South Africa and New Zealand in 2026
The captain of the South African men’s rugby team, Siya Kolisi, has expressed his enthusiasm for the four-match home series against New Zealand in September 2026. This series, which is expected to be a momentous event for the Springboks and the franchise teams that will face the All Blacks. The South African rugby federation confirmed that the All Blacks will undertake a major tour of South Africa for the first time in 30 years, calling it “The Greatest Rugby Rivalry”. The Boks will return the favor in 2030, traveling to New Zealand for their first tour in the professional era.Kolisi, who has led the Boks in two consecutive World Cups, commented on the importance of this series. “These are the tours we’ve only heard about. Experiencing this for the first time, like a Lions tour, is incredible for us as a group.” The All Blacks captain, Scott Barrett, also shared his expectations. “This is a great rivalry, based on mutual respect, but for 80 minutes, these are two teams that give it their all every time they play. The intensity is maximum, and it’s shaping up to be a great tour. The format will be great, and there will be many excited fans watching us from home, and also traveling with us. We are looking forward to it.”This is going to be something huge and something this generation will never forget.
Siya Kolisi
Schedule for the “The Greatest Rugby Rivalry” Tour
- Friday, August 7: DHL Stormers vs New Zealand at DHL Stadium, Cape Town
- Tuesday, August 11: Hollywoodbets Sharks vs New Zealand at Hollywoodbets Kings Park, Durban
- Saturday, August 15: Vodacom Bulls vs New Zealand at Loftus Versfeld, Pretoria
- Saturday, August 22: First Test – South Africa vs New Zealand at Ellis Park, Johannesburg
- Tuesday, August 25: Lions vs New Zealand at Ellis Park, Johannesburg
- Saturday, August 29: Second Test – South Africa vs New Zealand at DHL Stadium, Cape Town
- Saturday, September 5: Third Test – South Africa vs New Zealand at FNB Stadium, Johannesburg
- Saturday, September 12: Fourth Test – South Africa vs New Zealand (venue to be announced)
