The Future of the Springbok Captaincy

The Future of the Springbok Captaincy

The captaincy of the Springboks is currently at a crossroads, with significant attention focused on Siya Kolisi’s tenure as the leader. Kolisi’s recent move to Racing 92 in France has ignited discussions on whether the Springboks should continue with an overseas-based captain. Coach Rassie Erasmus has shown a preference for a captain based within South Africa, which brings Kolisi’s role into question, despite his impressive form and commitment to the national team​​​​.

The Criteria

The future captain will inherit not just a role within the games, but also the responsibility of being a global ambassador for South African rugby. This selection will reflect SA Rugby’s strategic vision and its emphasis on maintaining a cohesive and competitive national squad in preparation for a busy schedule, including the 2027 Rugby World Cup​​​​.

The criteria for the next captain will extend beyond their on-field skills to include their ability to inspire and unify the team, especially during challenging times. The new leader must balance exceptional performance with the responsibility of being a role model.

Candidates

Looking beyond Kolisi, the debate around his successor is intensifying. The top candidates for the role include Eben Etzebeth, Lukhanyo Am, and Bongi Mbonambi. 

Eben Etzebeth is known for his formidable presence and vast experience, including previous stints as a leader with the Boks. Renown for his formidable work rate, Etzebeth leads from the front​​ and is well-respected by all.

Lukhanyo Am offers a strategic and calm approach, crucial for high-pressure games. His experience as captain of the Sharks highlights his ability to lead effectively. However, he is criticised for not being outspoken and his starting position is contested​​.

Rumoured as frontrunner, Bongi Mbonambi is massively respected within the squad. As hooker, he is central to the forward pack, where his motivational presence and tactical acumen come to the forefront, especially in set pieces and defence.

Each candidate presents a unique leadership style, which will be crucial as Rassie Erasmus aligns the team’s strategic direction towards future challenges, including the 2027 Rugby World Cup. This decision will influence not only the on-field tactics but also the overall team cohesion and resilience.

The Road Ahead

As the Springboks prepare for their upcoming fixtures and the ongoing evolution of their game plan, the choice of captain will undoubtedly be a cornerstone in their strategy. The anticipation around this decision reflects the profound impact a captain has, not just in leading the team in matches, but in steering the team’s cultural and strategic direction forward.