'I never expected it': Captain Esterhuizen takes a leaf out of Siya Kolisi's book
SPOTLIGHT: Andre Esterhuizen has opened up about the experiences that have “shaped” him to become the Springboks’ new captain.
The 32-year-old will lead South Africa from his normal midfield position against Australia in Perth on Sunday.
He has evolved from a player who was on the fringes of Bok selection a few years ago to being an integral part of Rassie Erasmus’ plans going forward.
One of those plans involved converting Esterhuizen into a so-called hybrid player, which has seen him play as a flanker in the Bok setup.
It took a while for the bruiser to get to this point, which has included a successful stint with Harlequins in England in between his spells with the Sharks.
“When I left for the UK from the Sharks, I was fairly experienced and not too old and obviously I came back with a lot of experience having played in different conditions and with different teammates.
“And then coming back to the Sharks and stepping into the leadership role and trying to turn things around there has shaped me in a way that I couldn’t expect.
“I didn’t know I was going to be able to sit here and be the captain of this Bok team. I never expected it.
“It’s just a massive honour and privilege for me to be able to be in this position, and I think all my experience in the UK and with the Sharks has shaped me to be in this position.”
On that captaincy at the Sharks, he added: “It has obviously helped me a lot. I think being a leader at your franchise prepares you a bit for this, but in saying that it is so much easier here with so many guys around you who are all leaders.
“They help you in different areas of the game, so stepping up into this is quite comfortable.”
The story continues below…
“One of the most exciting games on the calendar” for the #Springboks, but facing the Wallabies in Perth will be anything but a walk in the park, and the coaches know it. Check out the latest episode of “Rassie on Alles”, out now!#ForeverGreenForeverGold pic.twitter.com/BQcg49uDYz
— Springboks (@Springboks) September 24, 2026
He has also learnt a thing or two from Siya Kolisi’s leadership.
“Siya has been a tremendous leader for the Springboks, and I’ve also played with him at the Sharks,” said Esterhuizen.
“Just to see him always composed and calm; it doesn’t matter what the situation is, and he is obviously relying on the guys around him as well.
“He knows when to step back and when to step up, and I think that is something I’ve taken from him.”
Esterhuizen will form a midfield combination with Canan Moodie once again.
“We’ve always played well together. It’s a good partnership, and we know each other well.
“We talk quite a bit on and off the field. Before games, we usually sit and talk through scenarios so he knows exactly what I’m possibly going to do and when to run off me and when to call for the ball.
“We are in each other’s heads, which helps a lot.”
Register your interest to receive priority updates on RWC27 ticket releases. Don't miss out, stay in the loop!
