'To be a Springbok is not an easy journey'
REACTION: It was a day to remember for Eben Etzebeth and Mbongeni Mbonambi.
The duo celebrated special Springbok career milestones during South Africa’s 30-14 win over Wales on Saturday in Cape Town.
Etzebeth became the seventh player to his earn his 100th Test cap in the history of Springbok rugby, while Mbonambi became the 45th player to earn a half-century of caps as the team wrapped up their three-match series.
At just 30 years old, he became the youngest Bok centurion and joined an elite club which includes Jean de Villiers, Bryan Habana, Percy Montgomery, Tendai Mtawarira, Victor Matfield and John Smit.
Known as the ‘Enforcer’ Etzebeth, who made his Springbok debut in June 2012 against England, delivered yet another incredible performance in front of 50 000 fans.
He was replaced by Franco Mostert after 60 minutes of play.
“Our main goal was to win the series and we approached the match like a final,” Etzebeth told reporters after the match in Cape Town.
“We trained well, and we managed to pull it through, and I think we may be in a few more situations like this.
“But it was special to have my family here and my fiancé [Anlia van Rensburg] singing the national anthem.
“Bongi also played his 50th Test, and he has been a warrior for Springbok rugby, so it was special to share this day with him.”
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Reflecting on his career, Mbonambi was equally delighted with his achievement.
“To be a Springbok is not an easy journey,” Mbonambi said.
“It took me longer to get here than other players, but it was a special day.
“As Eben said, we never made it about ourselves. As a team, we stuck to the plan and the players put in their best efforts.
“My family was here as well, which was special, but the most important aspect is that we managed to secure the series win.
“It is a humbling experience to play 50 Tests, and hopefully I can be like Eben and make it to 100 Tests.”
Mbonambi said the series victory was not only for the team but the country as well.
“Winning the series was vital for us,” said Mbonambi.
“We know every country will be coming for us, but this was not just about the Springboks. It was for the supporters and our country.”
#⃣REACTION @SiyaKolisi has come out in support of Jacques Nienaber’s @Springboks plan
😁Don’t you love it when a plan comes together👍#Rugby 🏉#Rugbyunion 🌍#RSAvWAL 🇿🇦V🏴
🔗https://t.co/BMUkgVL7JF pic.twitter.com/6CJ5ff91t1— rugby365.com (@rugby365com) July 16, 2022
Etzebeth admitted that he had further career goals when quizzed about whether hoped to become the most capped player of all time.
“I have my goals, but I prefer to keep them to myself,” the former Tygerberg High pupil said.
“To play my 100th Test was one of them and that came true today, and to be a member of such a small group of players to achieve it is an honour.”
Commenting on the match in which the Springboks built on a 17-8 halftime lead before sealing the 30-14 victory, Etzebeth said: “Many wrote off Wales after their performance in the Six Nations, but they are tough players, and it was a difficult series.
“We will have the week off and then we will prepare for the Rugby Championship which kicks off with two matches against the All Blacks at home.”
Source: @rugby365com & SA Rugby
#⃣OPINION: @King365ed rates the @Springboks players after their 30-14 win over @WelshRugbyUnion on #Saturday #Rugby🏉#RugbyUnion🌍#RSAvWAL 🇿🇦V🏴
🔗https://t.co/m9UgN0jTTj pic.twitter.com/rQaLXibQyT— rugby365.com (@rugby365com) July 16, 2022
