With back-to-back World Cup victories under their belt, the current Springbok squad is rich in experience. Here’s a look at those who hold the most Test caps.
Among the present Springboks, many players have already earned over 50 Test caps. However, Eben Etzebeth stands out as the sole member of the ‘centurion club,’ boasting 119 Test caps. This season, he is on track to surpass both Bryan Habana (124 caps) and Victor Matfield (127 caps).
Following closely are veteran fullback Willie le Roux with 93 Tests, and both Siya Kolisi and Steven Kitshoff, who have each played 83 Tests. Damian de Allende (78), Pieter-Steph du Toit (76), Franco Mostert (73), Handre Pollard, and Frans Malherbe (both 69) are next in line.
The roster continues with Jesse Kriel and Bongi Mbonambi, each with 68 Tests, followed by Trevor Nyakane (67), Lood de Jager (66), and Malcolm Marx (64). Faf de Klerk has 55 Test appearances, Vincent Koch has 49, and Makazole Mapimpi, Kwagga Smith, and Damian Willemse follow with 41, 40, and 39 respectively.
Other noteworthy Springboks with a significant number of Test caps include Lukhanyo Am (35), RG Snyman (34), Cobus Reinach (32), Cheslin Kolbe (31), and Ox Nche (28). This impressive list of players highlights what might be the greatest generation of Springboks ever assembled.
While many of these athletes have robust careers ahead, Rassie Erasmus, the team coach, recognizes the need for serious discussions with several key players over 30 as their careers begin to wind down.
Erasmus has already strategized for the future, setting goals for the 2019, 2023, and 2027 World Cups. “In 2018, we mapped out where players would be at these stages,” he explained in a recent press briefing. “We’ve identified those who we think can continue for another year and tasked them with mentoring the younger players before potentially reaching their 100th Test or another milestone.”
Erasmus is aware of the challenges in managing veteran players, especially those who envision winning another World Cup despite advancing age. “Telling a player it’s time to stop is always difficult,” he admitted, projecting that the team’s average age should not exceed 29 or 30 years.
