Siya Kolisi credits Rassie Erasmus for support through captaincy
Siya Kolisi has creditide Rassie Erasmus for his support and leadership that help him navigate the challenges of his Springboks captaincy.
Siya Kolisi, a Springbok legend who led South Africa to two Rugby World Cup victories, faced early challenges as captain. He candidly reveals his struggles and credits Rassie Erasmus for fostering a shared leadership approach.
ALSO READ: Springbok Sevens unleash the big guns for HSBC SVNS
RASSIE ERASMUS: LEADERSHIP STRATEGY
When Rassie Erasmus, the Springboks’ director of rugby, appointed Kolisi captain, outward appearances suggested a seamless transition. But Kolisi admits that finding his feet in the role was difficult initially.
“It’s not about me, it’s about the group,” Kolisi explained on the Behind the Ruck podcast. “Coach Rassie probably knew I would struggle at the beginning, so he made a system…so he took away the pressure from me.”
ALSO READ: Springboks duo return to Bulls ahead of Lions clash
RASSIE’S INFLUENCE ON TEAM DYNAMICS
Kolisi realized that Rassie’s approach to leadership transcended the typical captain-centric model. Instead of dominating, Kolisi found a support network where other leaders also flourished, allowing him to rely on his teammates as well as his own evolving leadership skills.
He pinpoints a defining moment – the early thrashing by England where the Springboks trailed 21 points in the first 15 minutes. While Kolisi was at a loss, the experience taught him the importance of sharing the leadership burden.
ALSO READ: Young Stormers star invited to Springboks camp – report
RASSIE ERASMUS: THE DEFENSIVE MASTERMIND
Rassie Erasmus, alongside Jacques Nienaber, had overhauled the team’s defensive system.
Despite some early stumbles, their confidence in the strategy remained unshaken. “Jacques was like, ‘don’t stop doing it’, even though we weren’t getting it right,” Kolisi shares.
ALSO READ: Jake White: ‘Bafana Bafana lesson’ for Springboks
That game against England ignited a comeback, ending at 42-39 for the Boks. From that day, under Rassie’s guidance, a new era unfolded, laying the foundation for future World Cup titles in 2019 and 2023.