With Siya Kolisi still sidelined due to injury, the Springboks are turning to a familiar face to lead the team this weekend — Jesse Kriel.
The 30-year-old centre has officially been named captain for South Africa’s first Test against Italy at Loftus Versfeld this Saturday. Kick-off is set for 17:10.
Stepping Up After a Strong Start
Kriel already wore the armband last weekend in the unofficial Test against the Barbarians, stepping in as Kolisi continues his recovery.
Now, he’s getting the official title for the upcoming clash, making him the 67th player to captain the Springboks in a Test since the team’s inception in 1891.
Kolisi Still Out, But Kriel Ready to Lead
Fans were hoping to see Kolisi return in time for the big game, but medical staff confirmed he’s not quite ready.
That gave Kriel the chance to officially lead the Boks onto the field — and given his performance last weekend, it’s a decision most supporters will get behind.
A New Chapter in a Long History of Captains
Kriel now joins an elite group of Springbok captains, a list dating back more than a century.
The first was H.H. Castens, who led South Africa in their very first Test on 30 July 1891 against the British Isles in Port Elizabeth.
There are some incredible names on the list — like John Smit, who still holds the record for the most matches as Springbok captain with 83 appearances, and Francois Pienaar, who famously lifted the 1995 Rugby World Cup trophy with Nelson Mandela by his side.
A Family Affair and Some Surprising Facts
One of the more charming footnotes in Bok history? Only one father-son duo has ever captained the national team — Felix and Morné du Plessis.
Another interesting name on the list is current head coach Rassie Erasmus, who was captain number 47 back in the day.
And here’s a fun rugby trivia tidbit: Theo Pienaar is technically listed as captain number 13, even though he never actually played a match in that role.
He was chosen to lead South Africa on their 1921 tour to Australia and New Zealand, but didn’t take the field.
Who’s Your Favourite Bok Skipper?
With 67 captains now officially part of South African rugby history, the debate is wide open: Who’s been the best Springbok captain of all time?
Whether you favour Kolisi’s inspiring leadership, Smit’s consistency, or Pienaar’s World Cup legacy, every fan has a favourite.
Full List of Springbok Test Captains (As of 2 July 2025)
Here’s a quick snapshot of the full captain list, from Herbert Castens in 1891 to Jesse Kriel in 2025.
From legends like Danie Craven, Jean de Villiers, and Joost van der Westhuizen to modern leaders like Eben Etzebeth and Handré Pollard, it’s a remarkable roll call.
You can check out the full list by heading to the original post or clicking through the official Springbok stats database.
