LONDON, October 31 (ANA) – Flyhalf Patrick Lambie said it will be an “honour” to captain his country in London on Saturday when South Africa face the Barbarians at Wembley Stadium.
The 26-year-old No 10, with 53 Test caps to his credit, will captain the Springboks in the non-cap international.
Bok coach Allister Coetzee said Adriaan Strauss, who has led the Springboks in all nine of their Tests this year, will be rested for the Barbarians match.
“To play for the Springboks is a big honour and the captaincy comes with a huge amount of responsibility,” Lambie said.
“South Africa has a proud rugby tradition and the whole squad are excited to represent our country against the Barbarians.”
With his regular captain not considered for the match, Coetzee said Lambie was a natural choice for the captaincy against the Barbarians.
“Patrick was always part of the leadership group and part of the spine of the Springbok team,” said Coetzee.
“He has excelled as a leader at franchise level and has the respect of his peers. He understands the team culture and has a great understanding of the game and the way we want to play.
“I have no doubt that he will make a success of his appointment as captain for this match.
“Adriaan still plays an important role in the squad, by giving support to Patrick and also helping Bongi Mbonambi and Malcolm Marx with technical detail, and he has bought into my succession plan,” said Coetzee.
“He understands the bigger picture and he will be back to lead the team again against England at Twickenham next weekend.”
After 53 Tests for the Springboks, Lambie has scored 137 points. He is equally home at fullback and flyhalf.
Coetzee will name the Springbok match-23 on Thursday. – African News Agency (ANA)
