Springboks captain Adriaan Strauss will quit international rugby at the end of the season.
The hooker took over the captaincy of the side this year, but says he informed new coach Allister Coetzee of his plan to retire before being handed the role.
Strauss says the plan was to lead a team in transition and take things week by week in the role.
Coetzee says he's known of Strauss' plans since say day one but he is a vital component in their team and has been part of their succession planning.
Strauss has led the 'Boks in a fortuitous 2-1 series win over Ireland in June and a win and a loss against Argentina to date in the Rugby Championship.
