When the Springboks announced that Siya Kolisi had recovered sufficiently from an injury to start against the All Blacks, but that Jesse Kriel would captain the team, some supporters were up in arms.
However, for those with knowledge of the inner workings of the Springboks, it was always clear that there would be no issues or hard feelings about this decision within the team camp.
At Friday’s ‘captains’ press conference, Kriel reinforced this view with an emphatic response when asked about the leadership duties.
“I think, first of all, it just speaks volumes of the kind of leader Siya is. We all know that Siya is our captain and that he is the captain of this team.
“It’s all of us that kind of help and lead when we need to. I’ve got that role this weekend and it’s something I take massive pride in, leading this team and doing my part. But, as I’ve said many times, there are so many leaders throughout this squad – not just the 23 guys playing tomorrow. I’m talking about the entire wider group; the coaches – there are leaders in each and every area.
“So, it’s a massive privilege. I wouldn’t have thought it would be happening, but the most important thing is that I do my job and what is expected of me as a player. The rest takes care of itself. I’m extremely proud, extremely privileged – it’s a massive honour.”
Jesse Kriel ready to lead the Springboks
The Springboks wrapped up their on-field preparations for the clash on Friday with their traditional captains run at the iconic stadium, and Kriel said they had done everything they could this week to be as prepared as possible for the historic match-up.
“Firstly, playing in the green and gold jersey always excites me,” said Kriel, who will be running out for his 83rd Test cap.
“I always want to play my best, and as a team, we want to test ourselves against the best, so this is the ultimate Test match.
“It’s also a vital game for us in the Rugby Championship, so it doesn’t get bigger than this in terms of playing the No 1 team in the world in New Zealand.”
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