Watch: Siya Kolisi begs South Africans to stay at home [video]

Bok skipper Siya Kolisi has pleaded with the public to adhere with measures placed by the South African government in the fight against the spread of COVID-19.

The country is in the middle of a national lockdown which stretches until 16 April and, with it, came several special regulations, including a ban on non-essential travel and the prohibition of alcohol sales.

An impassioned plea to South Africans

While the majority has complied with the new laws, those who haven’t have sparked enough concern from the Rugby World Cup-winning captain to prompt him to make an impassioned plea.

“It’s imperative that we educate one another and we work together,” Kolisi said in the video. “It’s imperative that we listen to the police and the army when they tell us to stay home, and not fight them.”

Kolisi also addressed the perception that young or healthy people cannot be severely impacted by the virus, stating that there is a risk of transmitting it to more vulnerable loved ones.

“You must also think about the people who immune systems are not strong; people that have other illnesses such as HIV and TB.

“Please let’s all stay at home in your area, let’s look after one another because this thing can kill off generations to come.”

Watch Siya Kolisi’s COVID-19 message here:

How the Bok skipper keeps fit during lockdown

With the rugby season heavily affected by the COVID-19 pandemic, Kolisi – like every other pro – has had to improvise when it comes to keeping fit.

The Stormers flanker was injured for a big chunk of the Super Rugby season, but says he is back training after converting a part of his backyard into a workout space.

“With the lockdown, you obviously cannot go out and train, so I’ve cordoned off a patch of my yard for training purposes,” said Kolisi.