Etzebeth deflects attention from his 100th: 'The victory was the most important thing'

Springbok lock Eben Etzebeth was full of smiles after celebrating his 100th Test cap with a win in a match that had the billing of a final.

"Special," he said, when he faced reporters after the Boks' series-clinching 30-14 win over Wales in Cape Town on Saturday. 

What would have added to the occasion was the fact that his fiancé Anila van Rensburg sang the South African national anthem before the game.

Ten years ago, Etzebeth made his debut in a series against England. This Saturday, he brought up his milestone with a man of the match performance in front of over 50 000 people.

His response shed light into the selflessness of the 30-year-old, as he shifted focus away from him and back onto the team.

"I had my family here and that made it special, and it was obviously pleasing to get the win... even if you take away all of that and just give us the win, that will make me all the more happier," he said. 

RECAP | Springboks keep their composure to topple Wales and win series

A large 'Eben 100' wick was wheeled into the stadium before the start of the game, something Etzebeth said he appreciated greatly.

"Whoever did that, thank you so much," he said.

Centurion Eben Etzebeth steps out! Listen to Cape Town Stadium! You rate he’d want to touch those flames? pic.twitter.com/a0LMnnOsqH

He added that he will soak in the enormity of his achievement in the days and weeks to come. 

"The most important thing was to get the victory and I'm very happy for the team. I think every guy in the team put their hands up.

He shared the day with hooker Bongi Mbonambi, who celebrated his 50th cap, and Etzebeth was effusive about his teammate: "He knows how I feel about him. I've told him before. He's a warrior and it was special for me to share the day