Western Daily Press (Saturday)
Game is bigger than just World Cup final – coach
SOUTH Africa have been urged to inspire the next generation by claiming Rugby World Cup bragging rights in the sport’s greatest rivalry.
Each side – New Zealand and the Springboks – has lifted the Webb Ellis Trophy on three previous occasions heading into tonight’s final at the Stade de France, ensuring one of them will be crowned the most successful nation in the history of the tournament.
For the Springboks it is the chance to continue bringing together the country’s disparate communities, a motivation Kolisi insists provides the ‘why’ for the defence of their title.
“I believe we are a purpose-driven team, we’re not a trophy-driven team,” South Africa’s first black captain said before England were edged 16-15 in the semi-finals.
Kolisi himself grew up in poverty in a Port Elizabeth township yet has risen to become one of the game’s biggest stars and a standard bearer for the Springboks’ evolution from a symbol of apartheid to unifying force.
“This is what we live for. It’s about the people who are dreaming to be in our position in the communities back in South Africa,” assistant coach Mzwandile Stick said.
“We just want to do everything in our power to make sure we are reuniting those people.
“For a guy like Siya, coming from where he did... wow. No doubt in 20 years there will be a lot of Siya Kolisis, boys who have got here irrespective of background.
“It is like a fairytale story when you talk about Siya, but it surely does change people’s lives, whatever their background, if you have your head in the right place, if you have a goal and keep chasing it.
“The All Blacks have won the World Cup three times, we have won it three times, so this game is almost bigger than just a World Cup final.”
When the rivals last met, in August, the All Blacks were crushed 35-7, but they have rebuilt very impressively since then.
“It has been very difficult journey,” said wing Will Jordan, who needs one more try to break the record of eight tries at a single World Cup.
“It has taken a huge amount of drive to turn it around to get it right. It’s a special group here and we have always been committed towards being the best team we can be.”
New Zealand:
South Africa: