Eben Etzebeth, is set to make history this weekend as he becomes South Africa's most capped rugby player of all time. After equaling the legendary Victor Matfield's record of 127 Test caps in last weekend's Rugby Championship match against Argentina, Etzebeth will take to the field in Mbombela, for his 128th Test match, an achievement that cements his place among the greats of world rugby.
Despite a disappointing loss to Los Pumas in Santiago del Estero last weekend, the Springboks have returned home with their eyes set on redemption. Aide from a shot at winning the Rugby Championship on home soil, Etzebeth will have an extra incentive to deliver a commanding performance as he leads the Springboks' physical pack in what will be a momentous occasion, becoming the most capped Springbok in history. In a sport that values toughness, resilience, and longevity, Eben Etzebeth has become the embodiment of those qualities.
Since making his Springbok debut in 2012 against England, Etzebeth has been an ever-present force in the green and gold. Known for his aggressive ball-carrying, bruising defense, and aerial dominance in the lineout, Etzebeth quickly established himself as a cornerstone of the South African forward pack. His presence on the field has been critical to the Springboks' success over the years, contributing to the team’s triumphs in two Rugby World Cups (2019 and 2023) and their historic 2021 series win against the British & Irish Lions.
Over the past decade, Etzebeth has not only maintained a high level of performance but also evolved into a leader and inspiration for the next generation of Springboks. He was named South Africa’s Rugby Player of the Year in both 2022 and 2023, further solidifying his standing as one of the premier players in world rugby. He is likely in with a shout for the World Player of the Year at this juncture of the season too.
Victor Matfield, whose record Etzebeth now surpasses, was quick to pay tribute to the 32-year-old lock.
"Eben has been a special player from day one. I’ve always said that when you have someone like him in your pack, the opposition knows they’re in for a battle," Matfield said in a recent interview. Matfield, who was South Africa’s first-choice lock for more than a decade, added that Etzebeth’s longevity and consistency are what truly set him apart."
This weekend’s match at Mbombela Stadium is shaping up to be a special occasion for South African rugby fans, as Etzebeth will lead the Springboks onto the field in a must-win Rugby Championship clash against Argentina. As the Springboks look to bounce back from their recent defeat, the team will be eager to put on a performance worthy of the occasion, with Etzebeth front and center.
Salmaan Moerat, Etzebeth’s fellow lock and Springbok captain last weekend, spoke highly of the veteran lock ahead of the match.
"Eben is more than just a great player; he’s a leader and someone we all look up to. His consistency on the field, delivering world-class performances week in and week out, is something every young player can learn from," His ability to lead by example, both on and off the field, has been instrumental in the development of younger players in the squad."
As Etzebeth prepares to take the field for the 128th time, the Springboks will be counting on their talisman to help them deliver a powerful performance in front of their home crowd. His journey from a young debutant in 2012 to South Africa’s most capped player has been nothing short of remarkable, and Saturday's match will serve as a celebration of his contribution to Springbok rugby.
Eben Etzebeth's 128th Test cap will not just be a milestone for the man himself but for South African rugby as a whole. As he surpasses Victor Matfield, Etzebeth stands alone at the top of the caps list, and with more rugby left in him, his legacy will only continue to grow. His leadership, unmatched physicality, and passion for the game have left an indelible mark on the Springboks and the world of rugby.
Comentários