Salmaan Moerat has spoken about the pride he felt the moment he found out he would be captaining the Springboks in Saturday’s once-off Test match against Portugal in Bloemfontein.
The 26-year-old lock will become the 66th Springbok captain when he leads a young side this weekend’s Test at Free State Stadium.
“I didn’t think it was going to happen (to be named captain) – I was surprised when I heard but I’m immensely proud,” said Moerat, who has been the Stormers captain for the last year.
“I actually thought there was a typo next to my name when I saw the ‘c’, but when it was announced it was a special feeling. My family will be here for the game, which is going to be amazing.”
Moerat comes from a long line of rugby players, with members of his family playing the game during the dark days of apartheid. Captaining the Springboks will be a special moment for his family.
“My father played rugby back in the former SARU days and my uncles played rugby as well, so it’s a huge honour for them and for me to captain the Springboks,” he said.
Fortunately for Moerat, he has two-time Rugby World Cup captain, Siya Kolisi, to call on should he need some advice.
Kolisi was one of 16 players released for some much needed rest ahead of the Rugby Championship. Before he went on leave, he had some words of encouragement for the young skipper.
“The first thing he said to me was ‘congratulations’, and he is also said it’s a privilege that should not be taken lightly,” said Moerat.
“His advice to me was to enjoy the occasion and focus on my game, and the fact that we have so many experienced players in the squad will certainly make my job easier. But I also know that I can call him whenever I need guidance and assistance.”
Springbok assistant coach Mzwandile Stick was confident that due to Moerat’s role in the teams that he’s played in meant he was ready for the responsibility of leading the world champions.
“I’ve seen Salmaan develop as a player from his young days in the SA Rugby structures and I coached him at the Junior Springboks, and saw this coming,” said Stick.
“Given the number of teams he has captained, I know he’s ready for this opportunity.”
Saturday’s Test match against Portugal will kick off at 5pm.
IOL Sport