GQEBERHA – Springbok captain Siya Kolisi said strong crowd support in Gqeberha played an important role in lifting the team during matches as the Springboks prepared to return to the Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium.
The Springboks are set to face the Barbarians in their opening match of the international season, while the SA ‘A’ side is scheduled to take on Zimbabwe in the first fixture of a double-header at the stadium.
Speaking at today’s press conference, Kolisi was asked about the impact of playing in front of large crowds after approximately 40,000 spectators attended the Springboks’ match in Gqeberha last year.
“You see it before the game and you hear it when you need to hear it,” said Kolisi.
You get a penalty, you need to score a try, you kick into the corner and you hear the crowd getting behind you. Or in a defensive set you hear it. It plays a big part.
Kolisi said the support became particularly noticeable during key moments of a match and during the national anthem.
“Especially here, it’s really amazing,” he said. “Last year I was in the stands and I’ve never been to a stadium where the whole stadium is singing and the sound just moves around the ground.”
The Springbok captain said the team remained aware that many supporters were unable to attend matches in person and drew motivation from those following the games elsewhere.
“We know not everybody can afford to be here. Someone is watching at home,” said Kolisi. “One thing we really enjoy is seeing how people go out of their way to make sure others who could never watch us play get the opportunity. Sometimes it’s in malls, sometimes people set up screens outside for homeless people to watch.”
He said the team viewed its role as representing all South Africans. “We would love for everybody to see us play because we do it for them, for everybody,” he said.
Kolisi added that support from spectators could provide an additional lift when matches became challenging. “It’s special when people come to the stadium,” he said. “It lifts us, especially when the game gets tougher.”
The fixture also marks a return to the Eastern Cape for Kolisi, who said he always enjoys playing in the province.
“It’s always special coming to Gqeberha,” said Kolisi. “Seeing friends and family, seeing the people who come to the airport and support us, it’s something I never take for granted.”
The Springboks’ match against the Barbarians forms part of the opening weekend of South Africa’s international rugby season, with supporters expected to fill the Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium for the double-header.
Kick-off is tomorrow (20 June) at 15:00.
