Bold truth from the captain: Siya Kolisi calls out the Sharks’ disappointing start to the season. With a squad stacked with top-level talent, the Springbok captain argues that sitting 14th on the Vodacom URC standings after six rounds is unacceptable, and a renewed, high-intensity effort is needed across both the Investec Champions Cup and URC.
Kolisi spoke candidly to Rugby365 while preparing for a short break following South Africa’s undefeated five-match European tour. The Sharks are heading to Toulouse for a Champions Cup clash, and he vows to return with renewed fire.
“I’m returning to Cape Town to spend time with my kids,” he said. “Then, yes, we’ll come back with the same mentality and the same attitude for our unions. I want to take next week off completely and then come back refreshed, because we have big games ahead.”
Kolisi did not mince his words about the current form. “Honestly, given the squad we have at the Sharks, we shouldn’t be where we are. It’s embarrassing for me as a player. Coaches can only do so much.”
He stressed that individual contributions have fallen short of the required standard, starting with himself. “Some players are playing well and making an effort, but as a group—especially with the number of Springboks in the squad—that’s not the standard we should be setting. I’m putting myself first. I haven’t been at my best in the last two games, and I intend to reflect on this and come back stronger.”
He added, “We are Springboks, no matter where we play. We have to play with that mindset, and I hope for better energy than we showed in the past two matches.”
The Sharks face a pivotal run of fixtures: after Toulouse, they host Saracens, then welcome the Bulls in a high-stakes URC derby in Durban, followed by a top-tier clash against the Lions at Ellis Park on January 3.
Photo: Steve Haag/Gallo Images
