Siya Kolisi steps in to save pitch intruder as Springboks v All Blacks crowd in awe

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The Springboks captain produced another memorable moment after South Africa's victory over New Zealand at FNB Stadium

Siya Kolisi produced another memorable moment after South Africa's victory over the All Blacks when he stepped in during chaotic scenes involving pitch invaders at FNB Stadium.

The Springboks captain had just helped his side secure a 29-24 victory over New Zealand on Saturday, putting South Africa 2-1 ahead in the four-Test Rugby's Greatest Rivalry series.

But amid the celebrations, attention turned to a pair of supporters who made their way onto the pitch.

Security personnel initially tackled one supporter who had run onto the field. Kolisi then intervened, helping to calm the situation before posing for selfies with the pitch invader amid huge cheers from the crowd.

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Seconds later, another young supporter made his way onto the field.

Once again, Kolisi showed his softer side, removing his matchday shorts and signing them before handing them to the youngster as a souvenir.

The remarkable scenes provided another example of the regard in which Kolisi is held by supporters.

Saturday's victory was also a landmark occasion for Kolisi, who has now become the most successful Springbok captain in history with 55 Test wins.

The 35-year-old reflected on the significance of the occasion after the match, particularly given the history of the venue and the importance of making the Springboks accessible to supporters.

"It was really special," Kolisi said.

"We always say we won't just say thank you in words, but through our effort. We were tested in that first 25 minutes, they came out firing, and we had to dig deep to fight our way back into it."

He added: "They (some fans) can't afford to come and watch us play, but seeing that, and understanding the history of this place, the young people who fought so that we could be sitting here today, that's why we wanted this game here.

"That's what we play for, not just the people who can afford it, but everyone."

Kolisi also played down his own role in the Springboks' remarkable run of success, insisting the team's achievements were down to a collective effort under head coach Rassie Erasmus.

"If this were tennis it would be different, but this is a team sport. It shows the work Rassie (Erasmus) and his coaching staff put in," he said.

"We've got so many leaders in this side that I really only have one job to do, which is focus on my own game.

"The way the coaches rotate the team and give other guys opportunities keeps everyone hungry. If you don't get picked this week, you know your chance is coming.

"It also keeps us fresh so we're not overplayed. It's a group effort, and I'm really happy about that."

The Springboks will now travel to Baltimore for the fourth and final Test against New Zealand next weekend, with the All Blacks still able to level the series.

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