Siya Kolisi’s blunt Springboks message: Only series victory will do against All Blacks

Siya Kolisi, the Springboks captain, has made it clear that the World Champions are aiming for a series victory against the All Blacks, with no acceptance of a draw. The match, scheduled for Saturday at Soccer City in Soweto, is crucial for the Boks to maintain control of the series and preserve their pride. Despite losing the first Test, the Springboks fought back in the second, and Kolisi insists they are taking the upcoming game seriously.

"We want to win the series; we're not playing to draw it," Kolisi stated. With victory, the Boks would be favored heading into the fourth Test in Baltimore, while a loss would force them to rely on a win in the United States to avoid a series loss. For Kolisi, the match also presents an opportunity to break a personal record, as a win would give him the 55th Test win as captain, surpassing John Smit's record.

Despite the focus on the milestone, Kolisi emphasized that the team's overall success is paramount. The Boks will need to bolster their defense, as the All Blacks have scored nine tries against South Africa's four in the first two Tests. However, Kolisi's assistant coach, Mzwandile Stick, acknowledged that the All Blacks are displaying great confidence, having played at the peak of their form.

Stick believes the All Blacks are growing in confidence under their new coaching system and that the team's fine margins in the first two Tests highlight both teams' competitive spirit. Rain is expected for the match, but Kolisi is confident that the Boks' game plan will remain unaffected, as their approach is designed to work in various weather conditions.