Smit backs Burger for Bok captaincy
Saracens hooker John Smit believes Stormers skipper Schalk Burger is the right man to succeed him as Springboks captain.
Burger has been a mainstay in the Springbok squad since making his debut in 2003 and has been handed leadership roles with both Western Province and the Stormers.
While thought by some to be a bit of a loose cannon, Smit believes there are several factors which count in Burger's favour when weighing up who should lead the Springboks.
"I have been involved in talks about my successor since 2008," he told Sport24.
"There might be a young player who performs well and is awarded the captaincy, but my money is on Schalk.
"He has the most experience and is the one who commands the most respect among the Boks. It will be the smoothest transition.
"He is a hard worker, tough as nails and he understands people," added Smit.
Smit said the appointment of the new skipper will also depend on the new Springbok coach.
"It depends on the sort of leader he wants. He may want to do something different with the Boks," mused the Saracens man.
Smit did, however, have little to say regarding who should be named Springbok coach.
"I'm sure the decision has been made already," he explained.
"The South African Rugby Union (Saru) were smart in not making the announcement yet as they have been criticised for impulsive decisions in the past."