South African rugby sensation Cheslin Kolbe has shared an interesting family revelation, explaining how his father changed his rugby allegiance from New Zealand's All Blacks to South Africa's Springboks.

The 33-year-old winger made the revelation during an interview with GoodHope FM, following the release of his memoir, Sidestepping the Odds.

Kolbe reflected on growing up in Kraaifontein, Cape Town, where supporting the All Blacks was surprisingly common in sections of the coloured community. For many supporters, New Zealand's attractive style of rugby had long made the team a favourite, even when South Africa was playing.

However, the Springboks' recent success and the way the team has represented South Africa appear to have changed attitudes. Kolbe revealed that his own father, Andrew, had eventually switched allegiance and become a Springboks supporter.

The revelation is particularly interesting because Kolbe himself grew up admiring the All Blacks' playing style, even though representing South Africa was always his childhood dream.

His story offers a glimpse into how sport can influence identity, family relationships and national pride across generations.

Kolbe has also recently returned to South Africa after spending several years playing abroad. He has joined the Stormers, although an injury has delayed his return to competitive action.

For Springboks supporters, the story is another reminder of how the national team's achievements have helped unite rugby fans who once supported rival nations.

http://briefly.co.za/sports/rugby/258010-cheslin-kolbe-opens-fathers-change-heart-blacks-springboks/