Cheslin Kolbe Reflects On Record All Blacks Win: “We Owed Ourselves That”

Springbok star Cheslin Kolbe has described South Africa’s 43-10 demolition of the All Blacks in Wellington as more than just a victory. For him, it was a performance the team owed themselves after the disappointment of Eden Park earlier in the season.

A Freedom Cup To Savour

The win was historic in every sense. Not only did it put the Springboks back on track in the Rugby Championship, but it also ensured the Freedom Cup remained in South Africa. For a team that has battled with consistency this year, the result was a powerful reminder of what the Boks are capable of when everything clicks.

Kolbe, who scored two tries and tore through the All Blacks defence with his trademark footwork, said the victory carried deep meaning for the squad and the country.

“To keep the Freedom Cup in South Africa means a lot. We owed ourselves a good performance, and everybody gave everything for the team,” he said.

Kolbe’s Magic And The Team Effort

Kolbe’s individual brilliance 119 metres gained, four defenders beaten, and two tries was undeniable. But the winger was quick to shift praise onto his teammates and coaches.

He highlighted the “positive energy” within the squad and praised younger players for stepping up when given their chance. “Whoever gets their opportunity, we’ll back them,” he said, noting that the coaching staff had played a key role in preparing the team both mentally and tactically.

Fans on social media echoed Kolbe’s sentiment, with many calling it the Springboks’ most complete performance in years. Memes of Kolbe “dancing” through defenders flooded X (formerly Twitter), while rugby forums buzzed with talk of revenge and renewed belief in the Boks’ title defence.

Championship Race Still Wide Open

Despite the emphatic nature of the win, Kolbe knows the job isn’t finished. Just two points separate all four teams in the Rugby Championship table, with the Wallabies leading on 11, followed closely by South Africa and New Zealand (10 each), and Argentina (9).

Next up, the Boks face the Pumas in Durban before heading to London for their final fixture. Kolbe warned that Argentina’s physicality and form cannot be underestimated. “The Pumas are playing good rugby, and it will be a good challenge. Test rugby is about being clinical and disciplined, and that’s where we need to improve,” he said.

A Statement Of Intent

For South African fans, the Wellington win was more than just a result. It was a statement of intent: the Boks are still world champions for a reason. And with Cheslin Kolbe in flying form, their chances of lifting yet another Rugby Championship title remain very much alive.

Source:SABC Sport 

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