Richie McCaw joins chorus of praise for Springbok captain Siya Kolisi

Kolisi followed in McCaw's footsteps in 2023, becoming the second captain to lead his country to back-to-back Rugby World Cup titles and now turns his attention to make it a three-peat after reaching a special milestone against France this past weekend.

The Bok flanker became just the ninth player to represent the Springboks on 100 occasions, following the likes of Percy Montgomery, John Smit, Jean de Villiers, Tendai 'The Beast' Mtawarira, Bryan Habana, Victor Matfield, Eben Etzebeth and Willie le Roux.

Much like McCaw, Kolisi also became the first back-rower to hit the milestone for his country, with Kieran Read, Sam Cane and Ardie Savea repeating the feat for the All Blacks since.

While Kolisi did celebrate his 100th game with a 32-17 victory over France in Paris, his appearance was cut short as he was replaced by Ruan Nortje at half-time with the Springboks needing a lineout general on the pitch following the red card to Lood de Jager.

He did not let that disappointment get him down, however, as he was seen cheering his teammates on from the sidelines as South Africa scored three late tries to secure the win.

Much like McCaw, Kolisi also became the first back-rower to hit the milestone for his country, with Kieran Read, Sam Cane and Ardie Savea repeating the feat for the All Blacks since.

While Kolisi did celebrate his 100th game with a 32-17 victory over France in Paris, his appearance was cut short as he was replaced by Ruan Nortje at half-time with the Springboks needing a lineout general on the pitch following the red card to Lood de Jager.

He did not let that disappointment get him down, however, as he was seen cheering his teammates on from the sidelines as South Africa scored three late tries to secure the win.

The Bok captain has suffered his fair share of setbacks, sustaining injuries before both the 2019 and 2023 Rugby World Cups, recovering just in time to lead his side on both occasions.

"Playing 100 Test matches takes courage and perseverance despite many setbacks, such as injuries and that's exactly what Siya has shown throughout his career," McCaw added.

"I have enormous respect for what he has achieved."