Siya Kolisi warns South Africa against France complacency

Springboks captain Siya Kolisi has warned South Africa against relying on previous victories over France ahead of Friday's Nations Championship clash in Paris.

Despite recent successes against Les Bleus, Kolisi insists the Springboks must approach the encounter as a completely new challenge.

“We've changed as a group, and we've changed a little bit of how we play, so we don't get stuck in things that have happened before.

“We also don't forget how France must feel. We've been there and played against teams that have beaten us in the past. You learn to move forward to the next game. This is a new game and a new opportunity.”

Siya Kolisi Dismisses Previous France Results

South Africa defeated France 29–28 in the 2023 Rugby World Cup quarter-final before securing a 32–17 victory in Paris in November 2025, despite playing more than half the match with 14 men.

However, Kolisi believes those results will have little bearing on Friday's encounter at the Stade de France.

"Every game we take as it comes. What happened last year is gone," Kolisi said.

The Springboks captain explained that South Africa have evolved as a team and must focus on their current preparations rather than previous achievements.

Five Springboks Prepare for First France Test

Five players in South Africa's matchday squad are set to face France for the first time, with two named in the starting lineup and three among the replacements.

Scrum-half Morné van den Berg and winger Ethan Hooker will start, while Cameron Hanekom, Paul de Villiers and Jan-Hendrik Wessels provide options from the bench.

Kolisi encouraged the newcomers to embrace the atmosphere at the Stade de France.

“I remember playing here last year. The crowd gets really passionate. The French people love their rugby, just like South Africans do. They get behind their team.

“The way the French do the game-day experience is honestly one of the best I've ever seen.

"It's something to feel and enjoy before kick-off, but once the whistle goes, it's game time. When you step on the field, it's just you and the guys opposite you. That's all that matters.”

Springboks Expect Physical Battle in Paris

Kolisi highlighted the physical challenge posed by France, particularly their strength in the set-piece and ability to attack the advantage line.

The captain believes the newcomers understand the standards expected of them in international rugby.

"They know exactly what's required, our Springbok standards," Kolisi added.