South Africa’s inspirational double World Cup-winning captain, Siya Kolisi, won’t be starting but is set to bring his trademark power from the bench.
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Kolisi and his wife Rachel announced their divorce after more than a decade together, leaving their fans heartbroken.
The two often shared their love for each other and their family on social media, and were admired by many South Africans, who saw them as one of the country’s power couples.
Kolisi one of seven forward juggernauts in Rassie Erasmus’s matchday 23 for the Springboks’ opening tour clash against Scotland at Murrayfield on Sunday.
Eben Etzebeth – Record-Breaking Leader
Veteran lock Eben Etzebeth takes the captaincy reins as the Springboks look to cap off 2024 in style. With South Africa already bagging the southern hemisphere Rugby Championship this year, Etzebeth—South Africa’s all-time most-capped player—will extend his incredible record to 129 Tests.
Kwagga Smith – Milestone Match
All-action back-rower Kwagga Smith is set to hit the half-century mark, earning his 50th cap. The dynamic flanker has been a key cog in the Springbok machine, and this match is a chance to show why.
Franco Mostert & RG Snyman – Back in Action
The Springboks will welcome the return of Franco Mostert and RG Snyman to the second row. Both have battled lengthy injuries, but now they’re ready to reinforce South Africa’s formidable pack.
The “Bomb Squad” – Power Unleashed
Rassie Erasmus, a master of forward dominance, once again brings his signature “Bomb Squad” off the bench. None other than Pieter-Steph du Toit joins this elite impact crew, ensuring the Springboks will keep the physical pressure on Scotland all match long.
South Africa
Willie le Roux; Canan Moodie, Lukhanyo Am, Andre Esterhuizen, Makazole Mapimpi; Handre Pollard, Jaden Hendrikse; Kwagga Smith, Elrigh Louw, Marco van Staden; Franco Mostert, Eben Etzebeth (capt); Thomas du Toit, Bongi Mbonambi, Ox Nche
Replacements: Malcolm Marx, Gerhard Steenekamp, Vincent Koch, RG Snyman, Siya Kolisi, Pieter-Steph du Toit, Jasper Wiese, Grant Williams
Coach: Rassie Erasmus (RSA)
Wealthiest Rugby Couples:
Here’s a look at the top rugby couples whose bonds—and bank accounts—have made them iconic.
Johnny & Laura Sexton – The Dublin Dream Team (£6m)
From teenage sweethearts to one of rugby’s wealthiest pairs, Johnny and Laura Sexton have captured fans’ hearts as much as Johnny’s kicks have clinched games. Their love story began at Rathgar Tennis Club, blossoming all the way to marriage in 2013.
With three kids cheering on dad from the sidelines, the Sextons are as iconic off the field as Johnny is on it. The couple’s journey—from Saint Mary’s College to University College Dublin—stands as a testament to commitment and love.
Siya & Rachel Kolisi – The Power Couple with a Purpose (£10m)
Siya and Rachel Kolisi’s £10 million empire wasn’t just built on rugby; it’s infused with purpose. The Kolisis are widely admired for their philanthropic work, especially through the Kolisi Foundation, which uplifts underprivileged communities.
Although the couple recently parted ways, Rachel remains a key influence in Siya’s life. Now back with the Sharks after a stint in France, Siya continues to value her steadfast support. Despite the split, their legacy as South Africa’s “golden couple” lives on.
Mike & Zara Tindall – Royal Connections and Reality TV (£20m)
“Fridge” by nickname, royalty by association, Mike Tindall’s wealth and fame go beyond rugby. Married to Zara Phillips, Queen Elizabeth II’s granddaughter, Tindall has firmly planted himself in British pop culture. From breaking his nose eight times to breaking records in rugby, Mike’s career has been nothing short of resilient.
Since retirement, he’s taken his profile to new heights with appearances on shows like I’m a Celebrity… Get Me Out of Here and Bear Grylls: Mission Survive. His estimated £20 million fortune proves rugby and royalty make quite the combo.
Jonny & Shelley Wilkinson – A Hero’s Quiet Empire (£22m)
Jonny Wilkinson isn’t just a legend on the field; he’s a legend in love too. After leading England to the 2003 Rugby World Cup victory, Wilkinson has kept a low profile with his wife, Shelley Jenkins.
They wed in 2013 on the scenic French Riviera, and now with a young son, they’re embracing family life in the quiet lane. Worth £22 million, Jonny’s legacy as one of rugby’s finest is matched by his financial success and family’s privacy.
Sonny Bill & Alana Williams – The Ring, the Romance, and the Riches (£20m)
Sonny Bill Williams, the Kiwi powerhouse, is famed not just for rugby but for his ventures into the boxing ring. Known for his versatility on the field and knockout power off it, he’s carved a unique sports career.
His whirlwind romance with Alana Raffie, culminating in a four-week engagement, sparked as much intrigue as his sporting accomplishments. Now worth £20 million, the couple’s success story includes rugby, league, boxing, and plenty of endorsements.
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- England team to play Australia: Borthwick names XV early again
- Ireland legend Brian O’Driscoll went viral for incident at an airport
- England forward has been handed a big ban following altercation with a fan
