Another Siya Kolisi miracle? Why the Springboks desperately need their captain back

Captain Siya Kolisi's career is marked by remarkable comebacks from injury, most notably twice recovering from career-ending knee injuries just before major Rugby World Cups. His ability to overcome adversity and perform on the grandest stages is unmatched. Kolisi's journey, from a child battling hunger to leading his nation in over 100 Test matches, is truly extraordinary.

As South Africa prepares to face New Zealand in the second Test of the Rugby’s Greatest Rivalry series in Cape Town, Bok coach Rassie Erasmus will be eager for Kolisi to return to the lineup after missing recent matches due to a hamstring injury. Kolisi has featured in only about 26 minutes of international rugby this season after being ruled out of three Nations Championship fixtures against England, Scotland, and Wales.

His last appearance was against Argentina, where he left the field before halftime. Regrettably, Kolisi was absent from the first Test against New Zealand, with Erasmus opting to grant him additional recovery time. However, Kolisi was named in the squad for the upcoming match against the All Blacks at DHL Stadium, alongside rising star Paul de Villiers, who has taken over the No 6 jersey.

The Springboks' performance against New Zealand lacked cohesion, with numerous errors costing them crucial momentum and points, particularly in the attacking breakdown. Kolisi's leadership in this area was notably absent, as the Boks struggled to match the intensity and precision of the All Blacks. While the team possesses players adept at winning the ball at the breakdown, such as forwards Malcolm Marx, Jasper Wiese, and centre Damian de Allende, Kolisi's unique role as a hybrid loosie was crucial in maintaining ball security.

His primary responsibility is to facilitate clean, swift ball distribution from the rucks, but he has recently been deployed as a ball-carrier in wide areas. Erasmus and the Springboks are counting on Kolisi's return to instill calmness and accuracy, enabling their outside backs to excel. The South Africans controlled many phases of play against New Zealand, but their inability to convert opportunities into tries and points due to poor accuracy was a significant setback, highlighting the importance of a stable ruck platform, which Kolisi could provide.

We will learn in the coming days whether Kolisi will suit up for his home team, as his presence will undoubtedly bring hope for another miraculous turnaround.