- As Kolisi pursues his professional career with Racing 92 in France, the question arises about who will take over the captaincy for this crucial encounter.
Siya Kolisi, the inspirational leader who guided the Springboks to successive Rugby World Cup victories in 2019 and 2023, may not be leading the team in their upcoming match against Wales at Twickenham on June 22, 2024.
As Kolisi pursues his professional career with Racing 92 in France, the question arises about who will take over the captaincy for this crucial encounter.
Eben Etzebeth, a seasoned veteran and a centurion for the Springboks, has previously assumed the role of captain in 2017 and has deputized for Kolisi on occasions when the skipper was injured.
Etzebeth's experience and familiarity with the role make him a strong contender for the captaincy in this instance. His physicality, leadership qualities, and ability to command respect from his teammates make him a natural choice.
Another potential candidate is Bongi Mbonambi, who stepped into the captaincy role twice in 2023 when Kolisi was absent due to injury. Mbonambi has proven his leadership abilities at the international level and has displayed exceptional skill and determination as a hooker.
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His understanding of the game and his calm and composed demeanour could make him a viable choice to lead the team against Wales.
Although Frans Malherbe and Lukhanyo Am have never captained the Springboks before, they are both influential figures within the team's leadership group. Malherbe's prop experience and consistent performances for both the Springboks and his franchise make him a respected figure among his peers.
On the other hand, Am has demonstrated his leadership qualities as the captain of the Sharks and has earned accolades for his astute decision-making and defensive prowess.
While their lack of prior captaincy experience may be a factor, their leadership abilities and the trust they have gained from their teammates cannot be overlooked.
Ultimately, the Springbok coaching staff will decide who will assume the captaincy in Kolisi's absence. They will carefully consider the candidates' leadership qualities, experience, and ability to unite and motivate the team.
The chosen individual will need to inspire confidence and maintain the high standards set by Kolisi during his tenure as captain.
While Siya Kolisi's absence will undoubtedly be felt, the Springboks have a pool of talented and capable leaders from which to choose.
Whether it is Eben Etzebeth, Bongi Mbonambi, Frans Malherbe, or Lukhanyo Am, the team will look to their new captain to guide them to victory and continue the rich tradition of success that the Springboks have become renowned for.
