Springbok captain Siya Kolisi has jokingly mocked friend and fellow player Cheslin Kolbe in his latest Instagram post.
The pint-sized player – considered a “once in a lifetime player” by coach Rassie Erasmus – is just 1,7m tall.
Siya and the rest of the squad will play their final test match of the year against Wales this weekend.
SIYA KOLISI MOCKS CHESLIN KOLBE’S HEIGHT
In his Instagram post, Siya Kolisi shared a look at the Springboks day off ahead of their test match against Wales on Saturday, 23 November.
The captain spent the day with pals Eben Etzebeth, RG Snyman, Jean Kleyn, and Cheslin Kolbe.
“Five guys…or four and a half guys”, he joked, looking in Cheslin’s direction.
Cheslin hoped in the comments section, posting: “Nah, swak bra.” But it was merely banter between the players as Siya responded: “It’s all love, roompa.
Eben Etzebeth also joined in by claiming that Cheslin had mistaken a putt-putt course for an indoor golf course.
“I’m done with you guys!” Cheslin responded.
‘MY DAD TOLD ME NOT TO WORRY ABOUT OTHERS’
While Cheslin Kolbe no doubt laughed along with his fellow Springboks, he has spoken previously of how his height was perceived as a stumbling block.
He told SA Rugby Mag in 2021: “Looking back now, I honestly never thought that I would come this far in my rugby career because of all the challenges I faced at a young age.
He continued: “Being told that I’m too small, I’m too light. I’ll never be able to play against the bigger boys, especially in South Africa and obviously the guys from New Zealand.”
Cheslin’s father, Andrew Kolbe, encouraged him not to quit his dream of becoming a Springbok.
He added: “My dad always told me not to worry what other people said, just make sure to do what you set out for yourself.”
Images via Instagram: @cheslinkolbe
WORLD RUGBY’S PLAYER OF THE YEAR?
Meanwhile, Cheslin Kolbe is gearing up for the World Rugby Awards on Sunday, 24 November, where he is nominated in the Player of the Year category.
Also in the category are fellow Springboks Eben Etzebeth and Pieter-Steph du Toit.
Caelan Doris of Ireland is the only other player nominated for the award.
DO YOU THINK CHESLIN KOLBE’S HEIGHT HAS WORKED IN HIS FAVOUR?
Let us know by clicking on the comment tab below this article or by emailing info@thesouthafrican.com or sending a WhatsApp to 060 011 021 1
You can also follow @TheSAnews on X and The South African on Facebook for the latest news.
