Springboks Siya Kolisi and Eben Etzebeth may have come from drastically different backgrounds, but their firm friendship – fondly labelled a “bromance” – is proof that South Africans can unite in diversity and, naturally, their love of the sport.
The rugby duo are known known for their hilarious banter and public displays of affection, on and off the pitch.
Ahead of their match against Argentina this weekend, captain Siya claimed that the squad would be playing in honour of his bestie, who will officially become the highest-ever capped Bok player.
SIYA KOLISI AND EBEN ETZEBETH: WHERE DID THEY MEET?
Speaking ahead of their second clash against Argentina at the Mbombela Stadium on Saturday, 28 September, Springboks captain Siya Kolisi revealed that the squad would dedicate their match to player Eben Etzebeth.
The towering lock will make his 128th test appearance – making him the Springboks most capped player.
Siya said: “For us as a team, the best way to show how special he is to us will be to win tomorrow. He doesn’t want this week to be about him. Winning (the game and the trophy) would mean so much more to him.”
Eben Etzebeth debuted for the Boks in 2012 in a match against England. A year later, Siya Kolisi joined the squad. However, the Bok besties met years earlier.
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Siya told SA Rugby Mag that he met Eben before both joined the Springboks.
He said. “We’ve come a long way together … we met at Craven Week, we were both 18.
“He’s one of the reasons I moved to Western Province and was one of the first friends I had who spoke Afrikaans.”
Meanwhile, Siya Kolisi is set to reunite with Eben at the Sharks after cutting short his contract with French club Racing92.