JOHANNESBURG, February 18 (ANA) – The Southern Kings have named prop Schalk Ferreira as the captain for the 2017 season, ahead of the Super Rugby competition starting next week.
Coach Deon Davids said he pleased to unveil Ferreira as his new leader on the field.
“I’m pleased to announce that Schalk Ferreira will be our captain for our Super Rugby campaign in 2017. Schalk is a great ambassador for the Southern Kings franchise,” said Davids.
“He’s an experienced Super Rugby player that wore the Kings jersey through different campaigns and battles with pride and honour.”
The 33-year-old Ferreira is one of the most senior players in Davids’ squad, having been an integral part of the Southern Kings since the team’s debut season in 2013.
Ferreira comes with a wealth of experience after having amassed 42 Super Rugby caps since making his debut for the Stormers in 2007.
The prop has previously featured for French club, Toulouse, between 2013 and 2015. He also represented the SA Schools team in 2001, SA under-19 and under-21 sides in 2003 and 2004, and also gained a cap in a World XV side in 2014.
“He worked extremely hard during the off-season and was a good example for young and old players. He stood out as a natural leader on and off the field during our pre-season. He is well-respected and accepted as a leader among the coaching staff and players,” Davids continued to sing his captain’s praises.
“He will be surrounded by a strong leadership group that will drive the team’s systems, discipline and culture throughout the season. I just want to wish him good luck. He must know that he has got all of our support in assisting him to be a successful captain and to enjoy his campaign this Super Rugby season.”
The new captain expressed his excitement at leading the Southern Kings in the new season.
“It is always an honour and a pleasure to represent the Southern Kings. Now to be given the responsibility of leading as captain is an added honour – one I carry with great pride,” Ferreira said.
“It will be one of my key responsibilities to lead from the front and ensure that we make the jersey, the franchise, our fans and the entire province of the Eastern Cape proud.”
The Southern Kings begin their Super Rugby campaign with an encounter against Argentinean side, the Jaguares, on February 25. – African News Agency (ANA)
