André Esterhuizen Reveals Why Springboks Captaincy Feels Surprisingly Comfortable
- André Esterhuizen is preparing for a major Springboks milestone, but the new captain says there is something making the challenge feel different
- The Springboks midfielder has opened up about taking on the captaincy as South Africa prepare for a crucial Wallabies clash in Perth
- Esterhuizen will lead a new-look Springboks side against Australia, with the experienced centre revealing more about his leadership approach
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André Esterhuizen says becoming Springboks captain for the first time feels surprisingly comfortable as South Africa prepare to face Australia in Perth on Sunday, 27 September 2026. The 32-year-old centre will become the 68th player to captain the Springboks when he leads a much-changed side at the Optus Stadium.
Esterhuizen said his experience as a franchise leader has helped prepare him for the responsibility. The number of experienced voices around him has also made the transition easier.
“Being a leader at your franchise prepares you, but also in saying that it’s so much easier here with so many guys around you that are all leaders,” Esterhuizen said, according to SA Rugby.
“They help you in different areas of the game. So, to step up into this is quite comfortable. It’s a privilege.”
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Siya Kolisi’s leadership left an impression
Esterhuizen will take over the captaincy with regular skipper Siya Kolisi released from the squad ahead of the Perth Test. Asked about lessons he had taken from Kolisi, Esterhuizen pointed to the veteran Springbok’s composure in difficult moments.
“If you look at Siya, he’s been a tremendous leader for the Springboks,” he said.
“I’ve obviously played with him at the Sharks, and just always seeing him remain composed and calm, no matter what the situation, is amazing.”
Esterhuizen added that Kolisi understands when leadership requires action and when it requires restraint.
“He knows when to step back and when to step up, so I’ve taken a lot from him.”
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New-look Springboks prepare for Wallabies
Springbok assistant coach Mzwandile Stick said the Perth clash offers a chance to test squad depth, with several players getting minutes after the demanding All Blacks series.
Stick highlighted Canan Moodie, Handre Pollard and Herschel Jantjies among those he was excited to see.
He also warned that Australia would provide a serious examination, particularly after the Wallabies’ recent form.
For Esterhuizen, however, the captaincy remains secondary to the collective task.
“Although I will be in the captaincy role it’s still all about the team,” he said. “Ultimately, it's about what we all do together on the field.”
The milestone therefore arrives with a clear message from the new captain: leadership may carry his name, but the responsibility belongs to the entire squad.
André Esterhuizen faces renewed attention before Springboks Test
Briefly News previously reported that André Esterhuizen’s first match as Springboks captain has attracted attention both on and off the field.
Questions about a 2012 school rugby disciplinary matter resurfaced ahead of the Wallabies clash, prompting Springbok officials to set boundaries on what could be discussed at the media conference.
The developments have added another layer to Esterhuizen’s captaincy debut.
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Source: Briefly News
