Jesse Kriel is likely hoping to follow in the footsteps of Maritzburg College alumnus Philip Nel, who happens to be the last Springbok captain to lead his team to victory against the All Blacks at Eden Park, almost 90 years ago!
The South Africans will face their New Zealand rugby rivals on Saturday, 6 September,
The Auckland venue has an impressive winning streak for the home side, who were last defeated in a test match against France in 1994.
JESSE KRIEL TO REPEAT MARTIZBURG COLLEGE ALUMNI’S WIN AT EDEN PARK?
In a Facebook post, Maritzburg College bragged about their second alumnus – Jesse Kriel – who would be captaining the Springboks against the All Blacks in Eden Park.
Their first was the late Philip Nel, who was the only captain to lead the squad to victory against the home side in 1937.
“History repeating itself”, the Pietermaritzburg school posted.
HISTORY REPEATING ITSELF
This weekend, Jesse Kriel (OC 2012) will lead the Springboks against the All Blacks at Eden…
Posted by Maritzburg College on Thursday 4 September 2025
The Springboks last beat the All Blacks at Eden Park – nicknamed the “Fortress” – in 1937, when they defeated the hosts 17-6.
The Auckland venue appears to be a good luck charm for the Kiwis, who remain unbeaten in the last 59 tests played there. Their loss was in 1994 against France.
Before Philip Nel, William Henry “Boy” Morke was the only other Springbok captain to achieve the feat against the All Blacks at Eden Park, with a 9-5 victory in 1921.
WHY IS SIYA KOLISI NOT SPRINGBOKS CAPTAIN?
This week, many rugby fans questioned why Jesse Kriel was named Springbok captain, despite Siya Kolisi making the squad.
Jesse stepped up in the absence of Siya, who had recently battled a knee injury.
Explaining his decision, coach Rassie Erusmas told the media that Siya – who was “touch and go over a nigglle” was a last-minute addition to the game after Jean-Luc du Preez was ruled out.
He said: “At that stage, Jesse Kriel had already been told he would be the captain. It was only fair for us to keep things that way.
Rassie added, “He’s a great leader and one of the core players in our team. His communication with the referee and his teammates is good, and he leads by example in the way he plays. So he deserves this opportunity.”
DO YOU THINK JESSE KRIEL WILL LEAD THE SPRINGBOKS TO VICTORY AGAINST THE ALL BLACKS
Let us know by leaving a comment below, or send a WhatsApp to 060 011 021 1.
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