Top 10 Most-Capped Springboks of All Time – Ranked
In the world of rugby, earning a test cap for your country is a dream. To do it consistently over years, through physical hardship, fierce competition, and changing eras, is something only a select few can achieve. South Africa has produced legends across all positions, but these ten Springboks stand above the rest for their unmatched consistency and longevity at the highest level.
Here are the Top 10 Most-Capped Springboks of All Time, ranked from No. 10 to No. 1.
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10. Joost van der Westhuizen – 89 caps (1993–2003)
The late Joost van der Westhuizen is widely regarded as one of the greatest scrumhalves in rugby history. Fiercely competitive and incredibly dynamic, Joost redefined the No. 9 role with his physicality and attacking flair. A key figure in South Africa’s 1995 Rugby World Cup triumph, he faced off with legends like Jonah Lomu and came out on top. His legacy remains deeply respected both for his on-field brilliance and his courageous battle with motor neuron disease after retirement.
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9. Siya Kolisi – 91 caps (2013–present)
Siya Kolisi became a global icon in 2019 when he captained the Springboks to World Cup glory as the team’s first black captain. His journey from humble beginnings to world champion inspired millions. A hardworking flanker known for his leadership, toughness, and humility, Kolisi has consistently led from the front. He added a second World Cup title in 2023, joining the ranks of all-time greats and solidifying his place among South Africa’s most influential players ever.
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8. Willie le Roux – 98 caps (2013–present)
A silky fullback with natural flair and vision, Willie le Roux has been one of the most consistent backline performers of the modern Springbok era. Known for his playmaking ability, accurate passing, and ability to join the line with precision, Le Roux has played a crucial role in two World Cup campaigns (2019 and 2023). His attacking spark and experience have made him an invaluable asset to South Africa for over a decade.
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7. Percy Montgomery – 102 caps (1997–2008)
Percy Montgomery was the first Springbok to break the 100-cap barrier, a feat that seemed impossible during his era. Playing primarily at fullback, Montgomery was a metronomic goal-kicker and a calm presence at the back. He was instrumental in South Africa’s 2007 World Cup win, finishing as the tournament’s top point scorer. His stylish play and ice-cold temperament under pressure made him a mainstay in the Springbok setup for over a decade.
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6. Jean de Villiers – 109 caps (2002–2015)
Jean de Villiers was a model of consistency, sportsmanship, and leadership in the Springbok midfield. A powerful and intelligent centre, he captained South Africa during a transformative period and was known for his solid defense, deft passing, and ability to read the game. Though injuries plagued key moments of his career—including the 2007 and 2015 World Cups—De Villiers remained a central figure in Springbok rugby for over a decade.
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5. John Smit – 111 caps (2000–2011)
John Smit’s leadership defined a golden era of Springbok rugby. As captain, he guided South Africa to the 2007 World Cup title, a British & Irish Lions series win in 2009, and multiple Tri-Nations victories. Whether playing at hooker or tighthead prop, Smit’s influence extended beyond the pitch. His calm authority, tactical understanding, and ability to unify diverse squads made him one of the most respected leaders in international rugby.
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4. Tendai “Beast” Mtawarira – 117 caps (2008–2019)
A fan favorite around the world, Beast Mtawarira was a force of nature in the Springbok front row. Known for his immense strength, scrummaging power, and tireless work rate, Beast became the most-capped prop in South African history. He played a vital role in the 2019 Rugby World Cup triumph, famously dominating the English scrum in the final. Off the field, his humility and charisma made him one of the most beloved figures in the sport.
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3. Bryan Habana – 124 caps (2004–2016)
Bryan Habana is one of the most electrifying wingers the game has ever seen. With 67 international tries, he is South Africa’s all-time leading try-scorer and ranks second globally behind Daisuke Ohata. Habana’s speed, anticipation, and finishing ability made him a constant threat. A vital component of the 2007 World Cup-winning team, Habana also earned accolades including World Rugby Player of the Year in 2007. His longevity and impact at the highest level are unmatched among backs.
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2. Victor Matfield – 127 caps (2001–2015)
Victor Matfield is widely regarded as one of the greatest locks of all time. A lineout maestro with exceptional game sense, he was the brain behind South Africa’s set-piece dominance for over a decade. Matfield played key roles in the 2007 World Cup victory, the 2009 Lions series win, and numerous Tri-Nations campaigns. Even after retirement, he returned to help the team through a transitional phase—further proof of his lasting value and elite conditioning.
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1. Eben Etzebeth – 131 caps (2012–present)
At the top of the list stands Eben Etzebeth, the most-capped Springbok in history. A towering figure in every sense, Etzebeth combines ferocious physicality with athleticism, skill, and unmatched intensity. Since his debut in 2012, he has been a mainstay in the Springbok second row, contributing to two World Cup victories (2019 and 2023). Known for his fearless carries, bruising tackles, and emotional leadership, Etzebeth continues to be a heartbeat of the Bok pack. Still active and showing no signs of slowing, he is poised to stretch this record even further.
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Conclusion
These ten players represent the very best of South African rugby—not just in terms of skill and success, but in durability, heart, and loyalty to the jersey. They stood tall through the highs and lows of international rugby, embodying the spirit of the Springboks with every match. As new generations rise, these legends remain the benchmark for what it means to wear the green and gold with distinction.
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