The Boks have begun preparations for their international season, which is set to be extended to 15 matches – one of their longest campaigns in history. So far, 13 Tests have been confirmed, with another two fixtures still in the pipeline. 

There are several senior leaders within the Bok setup, but Erasmus emphasised that Kolisi must remain the best in his position to retain the captaincy.

“I know captaincy is a big thing in South Africa. When I first started coaching, it wasn’t such a major focus for me because I always believed that everyone should take ownership and support the captain,” said Erasmus, himself a former Springbok skipper.

“But the icon that Siya has become in South Africa has definitely changed my perspective on that.

“Our view is that if a player is 34, 35, or 36 years old, injury-free, in peak fitness, in the best shape possible, and still the number one in his position, then he’ll remain captain.

Eben Etzebeth and Deon Davids. Photo: Morgan Piek

“Obviously, there are other options – Eben Etzebeth has captained, Bongi Mbonambi has, and Pieter-Steph du Toit has as well. There have been a few captains, but if Siya is fit, healthy, and in top form, I don’t see any reason for a change this year.

“But if he’s not the best in his position, discussing alternatives now would only make headlines and shift the focus away from what we’re trying to achieve this year.”

The Springboks will kick off their international season on 5 July when they take on Italy in the first Test at Loftus Versfeld in Pretoria.

OFM Sport/Morgan Piek mvh