New Zealand stalwart hails 'awesome' Siya and Ardie moment after Cape Town clash

While Rugby's Greatest Rivalry has already produced plenty of controversy, tactical debate and memorable moments on the field, one simple gesture between the two captains' families offered a reminder of the respect underpinningthe contest.

After the series was levelled last weekend, Springbok captain Siya Kolisi spotted the daughter of All Blacks skipper Ardie Savea on the sidelines and broke away to embrace her and her brothers. Kolisi had delivered a crunch tackle on Savea during the match, but it was quickly forgotten after the final whistle.

The moment caught the attention of veteran New Zealand player Jimmy Gopperth, who was watching from Brazil ahead of playing for the Classic All Blacks.

"Rugby, as a sport, is about camaraderie and about connecting with the players you play against and with," said Gopperth.

"The All Blacks have got such a history with South Africa. Yes, it's war on the field. But when that whistle goes for the end of the game they're like a group of brothers. A lot of those players really enjoy each other's company.

"That video with Siya and Kobe was awesome to watch. What Kolisi and Savea bring to their group as leaders is that togetherness. The best of rugby.

"The coaches and media might be getting heated about scrums and who is at fault and putting it out there to add a bit of spice. But I don't think Kolisi and Savea will care about those shenanigans."

Momentum is with South Africa as the Greatest Rivalry series returns to the Highveld, and Gopperth believes Rassie Erasmus gives the hosts a significant advantage through his ability to innovate and make New Zealand's task appreciably harder.

"He's brilliant at mind games, a brilliant coach and tactician," he added.

"Having him in their changing room, with the exceptional way he motivates his players to perform, definitely makes the Springboks tougher to beat.

"And after what has been going on in the press this week, there won't be any lack of motivation from Rassie for his team."

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