Jean: The real work starts now
Jean de Villiers, who on Monday was named Springbok captain for the three-Test series against England, has promised not to let his country down.
New South African coach Heyneke Meyer made the announcement just days ahead of the opening Test, in Durban on Saturday.
Saturday's showdown is followed by internationals on June 16 (in Johannesburg) and on June 23 (in Port Elizabeth).
De Villiers beat of a host of candidates – such as Pierre Spies, Bismarck du Plessis and even scrumhalf Fourie du Preez, who turned down the offer to rejoin the Boks because he has not played any rugby for three months.
De Villiers, who made his debut for South Africa a decade ago, spoke of the honour and pride in leading the Boks.
"My heart was in my throat when [Bok coach] Heyneke [Meyer] told me about his decision," said De Villiers.
"This is not an honour bestowed upon many people and I really hope that I can do my country proud.
"I realise there is massive responsibility with this position. The real, hard work starts now."
De Villiers did lead the Boks in a match against a World XV in Johannesburg in 2006, but the game was not classed as a Test match.
“This is the real thing for me now, the first time I will lead the side in a test, so while you could say I have had a taste of what it is like to lead the Springboks, this is a new experience,” said De Villiers.
“It is a big day for me, possibly the finest of my career. I made my debut for the country 10 years ago as a 21-year-old and it feels like that all over again. I feel like I have just been selected to play my first game and I am 21 again.
“This job comes with massive pressure. I have had the privilege to play under some great captains. I made my debut under Corner Krige while I also played under John Smit and Victor Matfield. You take what you can learn from those guys and put your own personal touch to it,” he added.
The Bok coach emphasised the appointment was only for the England series and he would consider a long-term captain later in the year while wary of the dangers such a decision posed.
“It was something that I had to think long and hard about as I have always chosen my captains in the pack," Meyer said.
"In my view it is easier to lead by example from among the forwards.
“However Jean gave me reason to break with my usual approach.
“He has impressed me with the way he has led a young side at the Stormers [Super Rugby franchise]. I am happy he accepted the captaincy because it is such a big responsibility
"He is a player with a lot of integrity and has huge respect from his peers and I have full confidence in him.
“He has been in my mind as a possible captain for quite a while now and there were no outside influences that played a role in my choice.
"I informed Jean at 11pm last [Sunday] night that he would be my captain.
"The good thing about choosing Jean is that every single one of my management members also thought it was a good choice and there was no-one who was against it.”
