Ardie Savea Marks 100th All Blacks Cap With Eden Park Heroics And Siya Kolisi’s Heartfelt Tribute

When Ardie Savea ran out at Eden Park for his 100th Test cap, the stage felt scripted for something unforgettable. Nine years after his debut at the same ground, the All Blacks centurion delivered once more, helping New Zealand edge the Springboks 24-17 in a gripping battle between rugby’s fiercest rivals.

A Match Saving Moment

Savea’s milestone match was defined by one crucial act. With the Springboks pounding at the line in the dying minutes, the loose forward dug deep and forced a turnover just five metres from his tryline. It was classic Ardie Savea timing, grit, and leadership when it mattered most.

“I just had to stand up for the brothers,” Savea said afterward. “As a player, you thrive on pressure. That’s what our people deserve.”

Respect From Both Camps

Coach Scott Robertson hailed Savea as “mentally and physically tough” and said his 100th cap summed up what Test rugby is all about. Captain Scott Barrett called him the team’s “spiritual leader” and admitted the entire squad wanted to make the night special for him.

But the respect didn’t end there. Springbok captains Jesse Kriel and Siya Kolisi presented Savea with a signed jersey and warm congratulations after the final whistle. Kolisi embraced him with the words: “Congratulations my brother.”

A Viral “Uncle Siya” Moment

What followed stole hearts well beyond the rugby field. A clip quickly went viral showing Savea’s daughter rushing up to Kolisi, squealing “Uncle Siya!” before leaping into his arms. Kolisi smiled warmly, telling her: “Hello, how are you? Look how big you are. Are you proud of your dad?”

Fans on both sides of the rivalry lit up social media. Comments poured in:“Best rivalry in the world.” “This is why rugby is the best sport in the world, guys can smash each other on the field and still be friends off the pitch.” “Massive respect to Siya and the Springboks.”

More Than Just A Player

For New Zealand supporters, Savea has become more than a rugby star. He represents resilience, humility, and leadership in a team that has seen both glory and hardship in recent years. Social media tributes called him “the heartbeat of the All Blacks” and “a warrior who embodies what it means to wear the jersey.”

Saturday night at Eden Park was proof that milestones in rugby are about more than numbers. They are about legacy, respect, and community. Ardie Savea has 100 Test caps to his name, but judging by his performance and the scenes that followed his story is far from finished.

Source:SABC Sport

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