**Siya Kolisi Hails Jac Morgan in Heartfelt Post-Match Recognition**
South African rugby captain Siya Kolisi has demonstrated an exemplary display of sportsmanship by paying a touching tribute to Welsh flanker Jac Morgan, following a closely contested United Rugby Championship (URC) encounter between the Ospreys and the Sharks. The Sharks secured a 29-10 victory in the weekend fixture, yet the enduring talking point was Kolisi’s candid ovation for his opponent, who had only just been named in the prestigious British and Irish Lions squad.
The announcement of the Lions squad—a celebrated tradition in northern hemisphere rugby—sparked excitement across the rugby world. Jac Morgan’s inclusion in the elite touring squad, alongside fellow Welsh international Tomos Williams, has been widely viewed as a testament to the resilience of Welsh rugby during a period of transition. Kolisi, himself a two-time Rugby World Cup winner and respected leader, was unequivocal in his admiration for Morgan’s tenacity.
“In the name of our whole team, I’d like to extend congratulations to Jac,” Kolisi remarked during his post-match interview. “He’s a true warrior on the field and fully merits his place in the squad.” The South African skipper went on to reflect on the character Morgan has displayed, citing the challenging circumstances faced by Welsh rugby in recent seasons: “Despite everything Wales as a rugby nation has endured lately, Jac has consistently shone through. He’s always turned up, always battled, and it’s never been easy trying to move him at a ruck.”
Kolisi’s sincere words further underline his growing reputation not only as one of rugby’s most successful leaders, but also as a figure revered for his humility and appreciation of the sport’s broader spirit. This is not the first occasion Kolisi has made a point to acknowledge Welsh rugby. Following South Africa’s triumph over New Zealand in the 2023 World Cup final, Kolisi took the unusual step of giving an interview in which he praised the determination of the Welsh public and their national team.
“I have a real respect for the Welsh people,” Kolisi told S4C in the aftermath of the final. “They work incredibly hard, and I knew the national team would find the strength to bounce back. To reach the quarter-finals after everything they’d been through says a lot—and now Jac Morgan will have a chance to lead this side into the next World Cup.” His remarks provided much-needed encouragement during a turbulent phase for Welsh rugby.
As for the Ospreys, the close of the URC season has been tinged with disappointment. Following a spirited, albeit ultimately unsuccessful, campaign in the EPCR Challenge Cup, which saw them bow out in the quarter-finals at the hands of Lyon, head coach Mark Jones attempted to galvanise his side after stepping in mid-season for Toby Booth. The defeat to the Sharks spells an end to their play-off ambitions, with results now ruling them out of a top-eight finish.
Looking towards the future, however, Ospreys supporters have cause for optimism. Next season promises renewed hope, with the imminent arrivals of Queensland Reds captain Ryan Smith and the experienced backrower Ross Moriarty, returning from French club Brive. With a full pre-season under his belt, Jones will have an opportunity to shape the squad and pursue improved fortunes.
This balance between fierce competition and mutual respect has long been a hallmark of rugby union. Kolisi’s gestures—acknowledged across social media as a hallmark of integrity—serve as a reminder of the game’s values, even as rivalries on the pitch remain as intense as ever.
For both Siya Kolisi and Jac Morgan, the encounter was clearly more than just another fixture: it was an affirmation of leadership, character, and the influence top players wield beyond the touchline. With the British and Irish Lions tour looming, all eyes will be on Morgan as he seeks to build on the admiration of one of world rugby’s finest captains. For the Ospreys, planning for next season has already begun, buoyed by the promise of new faces—and by the global recognition one of their own has received.