Etzebeth picks his Bok captain
SPOTLIGHT: As the Bok captaincy debate rages on, Springbok superstar Eben Etzebeth would “love” it if his longtime friend gets the role in this new World Cup cycle.
In March, Springbok head coach Rassie Erasmus made it clear that he wants his leader to be based in South Africa.
With Siya Kolisi currently in France with Racing 92, fans and pundits have been debating about who that could be.
Etzebeth has emerged as one of the favourites for the role over the last couple of months.
“Whoever is captain, things won’t change and our processes won’t change that much,” Etzebeth told Dan Biggar and Jim Hamilton on the latest episode of The Rugby Pod.
“When Siya was captain, you will get a guy that will speak to the ref about line-outs or when we get together, he speaks about whether our physicality or workrate is up to standard.
“I think that will stay the same.
“If I get the opportunity, it will be wonderful. If I don’t get the opportunity, it is also wonderful as long as I am part of the team.”
#ICYMI: Bok star shocked by Ireland’s RWC arrogance 👇#RWC2023 #SouthAfrica #Springboks #Ireland #RSAvIRE https://t.co/yXJyv7naEE
— rugby365.com (@rugby365com) May 1, 2024
Etzebeth believes his Kolisi still has what it takes to lead the Boks once again.
“I know whoever is captain, the leaders in the team will support that guy. It will always be the biggest honour in South African rugby to be captain of the Springboks.
“It’s not a big train smash if I am not. There are some great candidates out there.
“Siya can still be captain.
“He is playing good rugby in France and I think he will always be a part of the squad. I would love for him to still be captain, but that is up to the coaching staff.
“Whoever they pick, all the other leaders will back that guy.”
Source: The Rugby Pod
