Autumn International: Wales v South Africa
South Africa captain Siya Kolisi expressed disappointment over the negative tone surrounding his team’s performance after their narrow win over Wales in Cardiff. The Springboks secured victory in a closely contested match at the Principality Stadium.
Kolisi voiced frustration that discussions after the match centered on criticism rather than acknowledgment of the effort shown by both sides.
“It’s frustrating when people focus only on what went wrong instead of the intensity and fight both teams brought,” said Kolisi.
He emphasized respect for Wales, calling them a “tough and disciplined side” that challenged South Africa throughout the game.
The Autumn International fixture served as a key preparation match ahead of the 2026 season. Both teams fielded experienced line-ups, testing new combinations under pressure. Despite errors and missed opportunities, the game’s physical intensity and defensive displays drew attention from both camps.
Kolisi highlighted that the Springboks aim to build consistency and improve in upcoming fixtures. He encouraged supporters to view the team’s performance within the context of transition and development, not just immediate results.
“We’re proud of our progress, but we know there’s still work to do. The focus is on learning and getting better every game,” he concluded.
Author’s summary: Kolisi expressed frustration at the negative tone following South Africa’s win over Wales, urging fans to focus on progress and the competitive spirit both teams displayed.