After a season of battling injuries and gradually finding his best form, Siya Kolisi has re-established himself as a key force in the Springboks’ loose trio.
Back in his preferred openside flank position, Kolisi’s performances have been increasingly commanding, making him a standout player once again.
This Saturday, when South Africa takes on Argentina, Kolisi will earn his 97th Test cap, leaving him just three games shy of joining the exclusive club of Springbok centurions.
If he stays fit, the prospect of reaching 100 caps during the end-of-year tour looms large.
The Challenge of Timing the Century
Coach Rassie Erasmus traditionally prefers milestone moments like 100 caps to be celebrated in South Africa, in front of home fans.
This creates a scheduling puzzle for Kolisi, who could technically reach the century mark on the European tour, which includes fixtures against Japan, France, Italy, Ireland, and Wales.
For the milestone to be celebrated at home, Kolisi would need to miss several of these matches, a decision the Springboks will have to weigh carefully.
Remaining Springbok Fixtures for 2025
Here’s the schedule fans can look forward to:
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27 September: vs Argentina, Kings Park, Durban – Kickoff 17:10
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4 October: vs Argentina, London – Kickoff 15:00
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1 November: vs Japan, Wembley – Kickoff TBD
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8 November: vs France, Paris – Kickoff 22:10
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15 November: vs Italy, Turin – Kickoff 14:40
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22 November: vs Ireland, Dublin – Kickoff 19:40
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29 November: vs Wales, Cardiff – Kickoff 17:10
Kolisi’s Career in Context
Kolisi’s upcoming Test against Argentina will mark his 97th appearance for South Africa, positioning him as the ninth player in Springbok history to reach 100 caps.
Alongside him, Eben Etzebeth will extend his record as the most capped Springbok ever, taking the field for his 137th Test.
The team is packed with experience: four players boast over 90 caps – Etzebeth (136), Kolisi (96), Pieter-Steph du Toit (91), and Damian de Allende (91).
In total, the Springbok starting lineup combines for 782 Test caps, with 526 among forwards and 256 in the backline.
Players on the bench add another 189 caps, making for a remarkably experienced squad.
Springboks vs Pumas – Historical Insights
The Springboks have dominated the matchup in recent years, winning 10 of their last 12 encounters against Argentina since 2018.
The only defeats came away from home in Santiago Del Estero last season and Mendoza in 2018.
Durban has hosted three clashes between the two teams, with Argentina’s sole victory in KwaZulu-Natal occurring in 2015. The other two matches on South African soil ended in wins for the Boks, reinforcing their home advantage.
Looking Ahead
With the final Rugby Championship match in London, followed by the five-game end-of-year tour, Kolisi’s 100-cap milestone is within touching distance.
Fans and teammates alike are watching eagerly, hoping to celebrate this historic achievement in style, whether at home or abroad.