Stormers loose forward Siya Kolisi made South African rugby history when he became the first black man to be named a Springboks captain.
Kolisi will lead the Boks in their three-Test series against England next month – many seeing it as a significant step for a country still shaking off its racism tag.
Former Sharks coach Kevin Putt says the milestone 127 years in the making will go down in history.
"It's probably as significant as Nelson Mandela and what he did with the rainbow nation of 1995 in the World Cup.
"Kolisi deserves the appointment he's a fantastic player and I think it's a great step forward for South Africa."
While Chiliboy Ralepelle has led the team before, it was an exhibition match against a World XV.
Kolisi's appointment has drawn praise from teammates, former Springboks captains and those in other sports, as well as some in this part of the world.
"Personally, I know Siya Kolisi and I think it's great for the country," All Blacks midfielder Anton Lienert-Brown said.
"It’s awesome for him and he's a great leader and a great man."
Kolisi has played 28 tests for the Springboks since his debut in 2013.
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