Coach Heyneke Meyer has praised Springbok lock Victor Matfield ahead of his record breaking 112th test for the Boks this week as he continues to rack up the milestones.
Their were doubts about the 37-year-old’s return to competitive rugby, but the Blue Bulls lock put these doubts to bed with an impressive showing against Wales at Growthpoint Kings Park in Durban where he subsequently became the oldest Bok captain in history.
“Victor has made a huge improvement since his first game back at Super Rugby level and is now the Victor of old again,” said Meyer.
“He was brilliant last week, and this is a great way to honour him. It is all about the team for Victor, and not about records. But although the players are always going out to play for the country, and not an individual, I believe they will be really motivated to do well for him on Saturday. He has a knack of getting the best out of the team.
“Everyone knows about his lineout work, but what I don’t think a lot of people realise is how important his contribution is when fielding the kick-offs. That was an area where New Zealand were better than us last year, but as we saw this past week, Victor is able to cover a big area in dealing with the kick-offs.
“He puts in a lot of tackles as well, and is just an unbelievable leader who leads by example both on and off the field.”
The Springboks clash with Wales in the second of two test at the Mbombela Stadium in Nelspruit on Saturday.
