South Africa rugby captain Siya Kolisi has spoken warmly about his friendship with England flanker Tom Curry ahead of their Nations Championship opener this weekend.
The two back-row forwards share a close bond despite their fierce on-field rivalry, which included a tense 2023 Rugby World Cup semi-final in Paris.
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Kolisi previously reached out to Curry when the England star faced online abuse over a racism allegation involving Springbok hooker Bongi Mbonambi.
“I have spoken to him, I sent him a message,” Kolisi said.
The South African skipper expressed his admiration for the flanker despite the intense competitive nature of international rugby.
“He is someone I respect,” Kolisi said.
The two athletes have maintained their relationship outside of competition while preparing to face each other again on the pitch.
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“We can take it as hard as we can on the field, but we are good friends,” Kolisi said.
Kolisi noted his sympathy for the online backlash Curry and his relatives endured after the tournament dispute.
“I feel for him. I feel for his family,” he said.
World Rugby ultimately found insufficient evidence to pursue charges against Mbonambi regarding the incident.
“I have never been through that. I don’t know what it’s like,” Kolisi added.
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England will face the world champion Springboks as both teams look to secure a victory in their opening tournament fixture.
