Allister Coetzee says there is a strong chance that Adriaan Strauss will lead the Springboks beyond the three-Test series against Ireland, reports JON CARDINELLI in Stellenbosch.

The Bulls hooker was named as the 57th Bok captain on Monday. Coetzee confirmed that the appointment was for the duration of the series against Ireland in June.

At the same time, the Bok coach gave the impression that Strauss might retain the responsibility in the subsequent Rugby Championship.

‘This is an appointment for the inbound series, but I have no doubt that it could be for the long term,’ said Coetzee.

Strauss was the standout candidate for the position among the players currently playing their rugby in South Africa. At this point, neither SA Rugby nor the Bok coach want a national captain who is based abroad.

And at this stage, two of the strongest candidates for the long-term role, namely Duane Vermeulen and Francois Louw, are based in Europe. Unless one of them moves back to South Africa in the near future, Coetzee is likely to continue with Strauss.

Photo: Ashley Vlotman/Gallo Images