Kolbe Recalls Childhood Love for All Blacks
The Springbok winger spoke on GoodHope FM as he released his memoir, Sidestepping the Odds, while sidelined with a jaw injury.
Updated on Nov. 4, 2026 in Soccer
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Cheslin Kolbe spoke on GoodHope FM about growing up supporting the All Blacks and how his father switched allegiance to the Springboks. The interview coincided with the release of his memoir, Sidestepping the Odds, as the 33-year-old returns to South Africa after nearly a decade abroad.
Why it matters
Kolbe's comments reflect how Springbok success has won over fans who once backed New Zealand, a shift that matters in a country where rugby loyalties are closely tied to identity. His recovery from a jaw injury also keeps his availability for the coming Nations Championship in question.
Kolbe, 33, spent nearly a decade abroad across France and Japan before signing with the Stormers. He had his jaw wires and elastics removed about a week before the interview, but has not yet played for his new side.
The players
Cheslin Kolbe
A Springbok winger who has played club rugby in France and Japan and recently signed with the Stormers, and who is known for his speed and elusive running.
The details
Kolbe picked up a jaw injury during the third Test against New Zealand, ruling him out of the Nations Championship. He described his childhood support for the All Blacks as common in coloured communities, and said his father later switched allegiance to the Springboks.
Timeline
Third Test against New Zealand: Kolbe suffered his jaw injury.
About one week before the interview: Kolbe's jaw wires and elastics were removed.
4 November 2026: Interview published alongside the memoir release.
This weekend: Nations Championship kicks off.
This Saturday: The Springboks play Italy.
Season Trajectory
Kolbe's return to South Africa comes as the Springboks build momentum after their recent run of success, which has drawn supporters who once backed New Zealand. His injury, however, delays his impact on the Stormers and the national side's upcoming fixtures.
Kolbe's injury means he will not feature in the Nations Championship, which affects fantasy and matchday planning for supporters. Fans following the Stormers should watch for his return date, as it will determine his early-season availability.
The takeaway
Fan loyalty can shift when a team's performance and representation resonate with supporters across generations. Following players through injury recovery gives a clearer picture of squad availability.
What happens next
The Springboks play Italy this Saturday, and the Nations Championship kicks off this weekend.
Further reading
Explore more on Soccer for related coverage across South Africa.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Kick Off.
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