Siya Kolisi Reflects on Retirement as Springbok Captain Nears End of Career
South African rugby icon Siya Kolisi has opened up about the approaching end of his playing days, admitting that thoughts of retirement have begun to surface. The 35-year-old double Rugby World Cup-winning captain, who remains a cornerstone of the Springbok setup under coach Rassie Erasmus, shared his reflections in a candid interview for the series 'From Zwide to World Champion'.
Kolisi, who made his Springbok debut in 2013 and has captained the side since 2018, led South Africa to back-to-back World Cup triumphs in Japan and France. Despite his enduring influence on the field, he acknowledges that the time to step away is drawing nearer.
'I'm slowly thinking about it, but I don't really because my focus is I still want to play until my body,' Kolisi said. 'I had a conversation with coach, and he said you don't compare yourself to when you're young. Try and be the best you can at the age that you're at. And when I can't (play) anymore, I'll know, and he will know too.'
The flanker admitted that retirement will be an emotional milestone. 'That day will come and it will suck. Yes, it will hurt, but at least I know I can sleep on the fact that I gave everything while I had the opportunity.'
Kolisi also ruled out a future in coaching after experiencing the intensity of the coaches' box during a match against Argentina. 'I will not be able to coach. No way. I sat once in his box, I was like, 'Never'. I left it at half-time. I couldn't. I would go crazy (as a coach). I couldn't, I wouldn't. I would be a manager maybe.'
Nick Knowles Invests in Cornish Pirates
In other rugby news, English Championship side Cornish Pirates have announced that BBC presenter Nick Knowles has invested in the club. Knowles, known for presenting 'DIY:SOS', has brought in a film crew to produce a documentary series highlighting the importance of rugby to the region.
Fresh investment from the United States has also been announced, with J Kenneth Moritz and John H. Tippins, principals of Stonewood Capital Management, Inc, based in Pittsburgh, joining the club's ownership group.
Knowles said: 'It's a very exciting time to be a player, or supporter of the Cornish Pirates. The team are top class and investors are seeing the potential of the club and the scenic, historic and proud independent region it represents. I think a series that brings all this to a wider new audience can only be good for the club and Cornwall's economy.'
Knowles, an avid rugby supporter, recalled his first rugby match at Twickenham in 1974, watching Ireland beat England 26-21.
Leicester Tigers Face Injury Setbacks
Leicester Tigers have announced that back-row forward Emeka Ilione and prop Harry Palmer face extended injury lay-offs. Ilione, 24, has not played since January and has been ruled out until at least the end of 2026 due to a complex shoulder injury. Palmer, who underwent knee surgery, will be absent until November.
Head coach Geoff Parling said: 'Unfortunately, Emeka's shoulder injury is complex and hasn't recovered as we hoped. He will see the specialist again in November, but for now we know that he will be out until at least the new year.'