Cape Town - Springbok coach Peter de Villiers was surprised the British and Irish Lions chose Ireland's Paul O'Connell as skipper for the tour of South Africa which starts next month.
"I am surprised Paul O'Connell got the captaincy ahead of Brian O'Driscoll, who was the most successful captain in the Six Nations in 2009 and captained the Lions to New Zealand four years ago," said De Villiers in a news release on Tuesday.
"Having said that O'Connell is the captain of Munster and has also captained Ireland and we will not underestimate his leadership capabilities."
South Africa captain John Smit said lock O'Connell's selection as leader was a clear attempt by coach Ian McGeechan to copy the successful formula that helped the 1997 Lions beat the Springboks under another lock, Martin Johnson of England.
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'It is a very strong team' "Paul O'Connell is a team man who is well respected internationally and it is obvious they are trying to replicate the vibe and momentum they had with the same coach in 1997," said World Cup-winning skipper Smit.
"There is depth in every position which is what they will need on a long and tough tour. We expect there will be strong competition for places in all positions."
Smit was not surprised the Lions squad was dominated by players from Ireland and Wales.
"We always expected them to pick strong and aggressive forwards which indicates they see the scrum and lineout as key elements," he said.
"Overall it is a very strong team and one that will provide a big challenge for us on our home ground."
'There are a few injury concerns' The 31-year-old Smit is set to play his 82nd test and captain South Africa for the 56th time when he leads the Springboks in the first match in Durban on June 20.
De Villiers said he would look to blood a few newcomers in the three-match series but added the bulk of his squad would be chosen from a tried and tested group of players.
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