Kolisi marks Springboks' return, honours late teammate Andrews

Kolisi greeted the returning national squad members as they headed back to their domestic franchises after the recent overseas campaign. The Springboks leader took time to reflect on Andrews, his former teammate at the Sharks, in an emotional acknowledgement of the player's passing.

Andrews' funeral is scheduled for Saturday, marking the end of a period of mourning for the rugby community in South Africa. Kolisi's public tribute underscored the close bonds that exist within the national squad and domestic competition.

The captain's remarks came as the Springboks contingent dispersed to rejoin their provincial sides. The reintegration of senior players into the domestic rugby system follows the conclusion of the team's international fixtures in Japan.

Kolisi's dual recognition of both the successful tour conclusion and Andrews' memory highlighted the personal dimensions of professional rugby in South Africa, where players often share long histories across national and provincial levels.