South Africa's lock Eben Etzebeth (2nd R) clashes with Ireland lock Donnacha Ryan (2nd L) during the Autumn International rugby union match between Ireland and South Africa at the Aviva stadium in Dublin, Ireland on November 10, 2012 Back in 2012 when Eben Etzebeth (centre right) began playing for the Springboks, many were already predicting a bright future for the lock. Picture: Peter Muhly/AFP
It was never a secret that Eben Etzebeth had been destined for Springbok greatness, and if there was any doubt about his legendary status - that will be removed on Saturday.
Tied with fellow lock Victor Matfield for most Test appearances for South Africa on 127, Etzebeth will make the milestone his own against Argentina at Mbombela Stadium on Saturday.
In what should be the perfect celebration of his achievement, the Springboks will win the Rugby Championship if they claim a single point or more from the clash in front of their home fans.
With the knowledge that it would be a significant match for Etzebeth, Springboks coach Rassie Erasmus said:
“As a former Springbok I can attest to what a massive achievement it will be for Eben to become the most capped Springbok ever, and we are all very proud of him and want to make this a special and memorable occasion for him.
"If we can win the title and finish the competition off with a victory it would be a massive occasion for the team and Eben as an individual.”
The 32-year-old Etzebeth has been an integral part of the Springbok teams which triumphed at the 2019 and 2023 Rugby World Cups. He has also won the Rugby Championship before, in 2019, but that was a shortened competition due to the World Cup that year.
Matfield has spoken glowingly about Etzebeth, even though he is about to eclipse his record.
"I really believe he's the right-hand man of (captain) Siya (Kolisi)," said Matfield in a SuperSport TV discussion.
"In the huddles, especially when they are under pressure, he's the guy talking -- not just talking, but leading from the front.”
Former Springbok coach Nick Mallet, unsurprisingly also sung the praises of Etzebeth.
"He's got Victor's athleticism, really good balls skills and a feel for the game. He's got speed and he's got (Botha's) physicality in the ball carries and in the areas of the line-outs,” said Mallett.
"He's a nightmare to play against because of his defensive abilities. He's been the rock of the pack ever since he got in.”
Etzebeth made his debut for the Springboks in June 2012 at the age of 20. In fact, Etzebeth actually began his rugby career as a backline player before a massive 20cm growth spurt at the age of 16 saw him take his place among the forwards.
The rest as they say is history, and on Saturday Etzebeth will be making some more.