South Africa skipper John Smit will become the most capped captain in Test rugby history when his side faces New Zealand on Saturday.
Boks captain set to break record
South Africa skipper John Smit will become the most capped captain in Test rugby history when his side faces New Zealand on Saturday.
Smit will lead out the Springboks as captain for the 60th time in Durban for the Tri-Nations clash, surpassing the record of 59 Tests record previously shared by former England skipper Will Carling and Australian George Gregan.
The 31-year-old front rower does not want to be distracted from the task of defeating the All Blacks, but admits that he is extremely proud of the milestone.
"I haven't broken any records until I run out of the tunnel in front of the team at Absa Stadium on Saturday," he said.
"But, yes, it has been a huge honour and privilege to be involved with the Boks and I have thoroughly enjoyed being part of it all.
"We have the task of beating the All Blacks on Saturday though and that is what we are focusing on."
New Zealand coach Graham Henry was quick to lead the accolades for the South Africa captain in the build up to their crunch clash.
"He's a very fine player," he said. "He's highly respected by his players and he's a good bloke.
"He's a top man and I can understand why he's captained 60 Test matches and I can understand why the Springboks follow him."
