Springbok Siya Kolisi has been criticised by his Racing 92 bosses and fans for gaining weight in recent months. He’s also been accused of spending too much time with celebrities and on his social life.
The South African has been nursing two separate injuries on his right ankle and right hand.
Last year, Siya suffered a severe knee injury but miraculously recovered in time for the Rugby World Cup. He currently lives in Paris with his wife Rachel, and their two children Nic and Keziah.
SIYA KOLISI CRITICISED OVER WEIGHT GAIN
Speaking to French publication Midi Olympique, Racing 92 owner Jacky Lorenzetti had harsh words to say about Springbok captain Siya Kolisi. This includes comments the 33-year-old had gained weight, and was out of shape.
He said: “[Siya] had a remarkable start to the season, where he was a unifying presence off the field.
“The break [due to an injury] was harmful to him. He put on weight, lost form, and yesterday he was anonymous”.
Springbok captain Siya Kolisi operation
Springboks captain Siya Kolisi has been accused of putting on weight after an injury. Image via Instagram @siyakolisi
On the X app, many rugby fans agreed with the Racing 92 boss.
@Mikarozo_7: “Since the Rugby World Cup final, I have seen Siya Kolisi more around celebrity events than on the rugby pitch… his club is even complaining about his weight and form. Rassie needs to step in”.
@yusuf_vaid: “Siya is too distracted. Too much social media, too many events, too much hooking up with celebrities. He needs to focus on his rugby and let on-the-field stuff do the talking until he retires.”
@mongezisomaza: “He’d rather hang around the Beckhams and be a Liverpool cheerleader. Siya is living gorgeous the socials.“
@M49Denise: “Too busy jetting around living the good life“.
@TheScri76057990: “It would appear he’s been enjoying the Parisian food too much.”
Others claimed that French clubs were “too harsh” and “have said the same thing” about other Springboks, such as Eben Etzebeth and Cheslin Kolbe.
HOW MUCH DOES BOK CAPTAIN WEIGH?
According to an SA Rugby profile, Siya Kolisi weighs 103 kg and is 1,9m tall.
Just a few months ago, a Rugby World Cup profile stated that the national team captain weighed.
According to Planet Rugby, the average weight of a Springbok player is 115,9 kgs.
Siya will miss the Springboks test match against Wales on Saturday, 22 June in Twickenham as the match takes place outside the international window for players abroad.