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Duane Vermeulen will be a popular choice as Springbok skipper if former Boks get their way.
Four of the six former Boks who spoke to City Press’ sister publication, Rapport, about the captaincy chose the eighth man from French club Toulon as their preferred captain.
Former captain Corné Krige said it was important that the captain be the first-choice player in his position so that he did not come under pressure for not being good enough to make the team.
“He must be a natural leader and lead from the front. Duane satisfies all the requirements. Flo [Francois Louw] is the other strong contender.”
Tiaan Strauss also picked Vermeulen.
“Duane is my first choice as captain. He has everyone’s respect. But more important is that my captain without a doubt has to be a first-choice player. Flo would be my second choice.”
Although Vermeulen is playing overseas, Naka Drotské reckons it shouldn’t weigh against him.
“I disagree that overseas players shouldn’t be considered [due to social obligations in South Africa]. I feel if you’ve played 30 tests and go overseas, you should still be considered. Even as captain. That is the only way for us to stay competitive against Australia and New Zealand.”
The esteem supporters and his fellow players have for him also makes Vermeulen Chester Williams’ big favourite.
“Duane has a strong personality. He communicates well with the players, management and the referees.
“More important, he understands Allister [Coetzee’s] thought process and is certain of a place in the starting team. It’s a pity he’s playing overseas.”
Coetzee’s team selections will greatly influence who Werner Swanepoel thinks should be captain.
“If Warren Whiteley is the first-choice eighth man, I’ll appoint him. Should Duane be chosen as eighth man, I’ll make Adriaan Strauss my captain. It’s a difficult choice, but I think Warren has shown he can be a popular and good captain.”
According to Richard Bands, Juan de Jongh’s firsthand knowledge of Coetzee’s approach could play a big role.
“I think a coach always appoints someone who has the same vision and way of thinking regarding his game plan. I think Juan is a candidate due to his history with Allister.”
. At his appointment as new Springbok head coach last week, Coetzee indicated he would appoint his captain later. The first test with Coetzee as coach is on June
11 against Ireland in Cape Town. – Rapport
