The Springbok captain, Siya Kolisi, has wished the South African women’s hockey team all the best ahead of their game against Argentina on Monday in the Olympic Games in Paris. The two-time Rugby World Cup winner is in camp with the Springboks as they prepare for the upcoming Rugby Championship.

On Sunday, the South African women were edged 2-1 by Australia in a thrilling match to open their account.

Siya Kolisi after leading the Springboks to the 2023 Rugby World Cup title in Paris. Picture: World Rugby.

Kolisi, who has experience in winning on the biggest stage, shared some of his hard-earned wisdom. “Coach Giles (Bonnet), your coaching staff, Erin (Christie), as well as Quanita (Bobbs) and the rest of the team – ladies, I just want to say hard luck on the game against Australia,” said Kolisi.

“I know that you’re obviously disappointed about the loss, but I must say it was a great game. I don’t know hockey well, but I can see it was a great game and so many opportunities were created. I have no doubt that you will take the opportunities tomorrow when you play. I just want to say that we are behind you as South Africa. I’m definitely behind you guys, it was great watching the game.”

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Kolisi who captained the Springboks to back-to-back Rugby World Cup titles in 2019 and 2023, added that the Proteas must just enjoy the occasion and keep on fighting to the end.

“The first-game nerves are gone – we all get that, especially if you are playing in a big tournament like this. You’ve already done the hard work just by getting there. Now you must push even more – trust yourself, your game plan, and your teammates, and work as hard as you can.

“Never give up, fight, throw your body on the line, and do everything you need to do. I know the ball is soap, but just get stuck in there. Enjoy it, we’re all behind and we are all already proud of you as South Africa. Keep doing what you're doing!”

The match between South Africa and Argentina at Stade Yves-du-Manoir in Paris gets underway at 17:30.

OFM Sport/Morgan Piek cg/mvh