When Eben Etzebeth takes to the field against Argentina on Saturday, he will tie Victor Matfield’s record as the most capped Springbok ever.
The Springboks take on Los Pumas in the first of two Rugby Championship fixtures between nations. But this isn’t just any Test encounter. This one is riddled with sub-plots.
First up, with both teams still in contention for Rugby Championship honours, the Springboks just need to win the game to clinch the title; while Argentina have to stop the South Africans’ winning streak in the competition and also prevent them from getting at least three log points, to stay in the race for the title.
That said, the biggest storyline from this game will be Etzebeth’s remarkable milestone. After gaining selection on the bench, he will equal Matfield’s 127-cap record if he plays off the bench.
‘KEEPING MY FEET FIRMLY ON THE GROUND’ – EBEN
But the man of the moment humbly, yet unsuccessfully, tried to shift the attention away from him personal achievements and instead redirect it to the challenge awaiting the team.
“I would prefer to discuss the record when it occurs. I am uncomfortable talking about issues before they happen,” Etzebeth said.
“Were I to equal the record of the great Victor Matfield this weekend, then overtake it when we play Argentina again next weekend in Mbombela, it will be fantastic.
“I understand that back home now there is a lot about me in the various media, so it is difficult to completely ignore the looming record,” added Etzebeth
“However, I am committed to keeping my feet firmly on the ground and concentrating on the task at hand, which is defeating the Pumas and winning the Rugby Championship.
“We are about to face opponents who scored 67 points in their last outing (against Australia) so it is all about hard work and thorough preparations.
“Rugby is a great leveller. The minute you think that a record makes you special, the legs can be kicked out from under you.”
DO YOU RATE ETZEBETH AS THE GREATEST SPRINGBOK EVER?
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