Jean de Villiers has been appointed as Springbok captain for the remainder of the 2012 season, Bok coach Heyneke Meyer announced in Port Elizabeth on Wednesday.

De Villiers was appointed the 54th Springbok captain before the international season started, but initially only for the Castle Incoming Tour against England.

Meyer decided to hand the captaincy to the most experienced Springbok centre ever for the remaining nine Tests of the year.

“Jean had established himself as a brilliant leader and ambassador for the Springboks and South African rugby in the last two weeks,” said Meyer.

“He leads the team with distinction on and off the field and gained respect, not just from his team mates and the management team, but also from the media, public, sponsors and other stake holders.

“We have built up an awesome working relationship based on trust, integrity and loyalty, which is why I decided to make him the captain for the rest of the year.”

De Villiers, who led the Boks to victories in the first two Tests against England, said he was very grateful for the trust shown in him.

“The experience thus far has been unbelievable and humbling and I’ve really enjoyed the environment created by Heyneke Meyer,” said De Villiers.

“It’s easy working with this team and the help that I’ve received from the other senior players has made my job so much easier.

“I’m looking forward to working with them for the rest of the year and hopefully we can grow as a team and reach our goal of becoming number one in the world.”