South Africa captain Siya Kolisi has pushed back against growing negativity ahead of the Wales vs South Africa clash, a match that continues to fuel debate about the rivalry between Wales and South Africa and its relevance in the 2025 autumn internationals ranking impact discussions.
This high-profile Test, scheduled outside the World Rugby international window, has drawn scrutiny, yet Kolisi insists it remains vital for both nations’ development.
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Kolisi Responds to Criticism Around the Fixture
Wales and South Africa will close out the global rugby calendar at Cardiff’s Principality Stadium on Saturday, 29 November, kicking off at 15:10 GMT. Coverage includes BBC Sounds, BBC Radio Wales, BBC Radio Cymru, and live text on the BBC Sport website.
Some critics argue the nations should not be playing at all, as both teams are missing key players due to the match falling outside the official international window. Despite this, Kolisi strongly defended the fixture.
“I know a lot of people in the Welsh public are saying ‘why are they playing this game against the Springboks?’” Kolisi said.
“I don’t like it when people question this. Who are they supposed to play to improve themselves?”
His comments highlight one of the key moments Wales vs South Africa fans have been discussing—whether competitive Tests should continue even without full-strength squads.
“You Only Improve Against the Best,” Says Kolisi
Kolisi stressed that meaningful improvement comes only through facing top opposition, reinforcing the longstanding rivalry between Wales and South Africa.
“People look at this stuff so negatively,” he added. “You only improve by playing against the top teams—that’s how you measure yourself. Rugby people know this is only going to make them better, no matter what the result is.”
Wales, missing 13 players who compete in England and France, enter the match with a reshuffled team. Yet Kolisi believes this creates valuable opportunities.
“To build squad depth, you have to play against the best,” he said. “At least these guys playing now will have tasted this and had that experience. The game is good for both teams, and the Welsh Rugby Union can get good answers on their players.”
Kolisi’s stance underscores the match’s significance in shaping the autumn internationals ranking impact and the continuing evolution of both squads.
“Playing against top teams like South Africa not only tests players but also strengthens squad depth, giving emerging talent invaluable
experience here.”
This story was first reported by BBC Sport. Read the full article here.
