Percy Montgomery was instrumental in South Africa's World Cup victory last year in Paris, and he picked up where he left off in the first Test against Wales.

But Montgomery won't talk about it. His approaching milestone of 100 caps for the Springboks has captivated the country, but for the man himself, it's all about 96.

"I was lucky enough to get my 95th cap against Wales," smiles Montgomery. "So now it's all about 96. I'm not looking further than that, I don't want to jinx it!"

The most capped Bok in the country came off the bench during Saturday's 43-17 victory over Wales, and slotted in seamlessly at outside centre, scoring a fine try.

It was a testament to the his adaptability, and to his now indisputable pedigree.

"I actually enjoyed the run at 13. It was a different feeling sitting on the bench, but I'll always do whatever the coach asks of me. My goal is to win back the No.15 jersey, but of course in Conrad Jantjes I have formidable opposition.

"He has been in outstanding form in the Super 14 and he had a great game on Saturday."

Unrivalled respect

Since arriving back from Perpignan, Montgomery has added as much off the field as he has on it.

He commands unrivalled respect throughout the Bok squad, and has embraced the new philosophy of Springbok coach Peter de Villiers.

"It's been a very exciting few weeks. Peter has a lot of ideas and I've really enjoyed working with him so far.

"The game plan we're working on is designed to exploit the ELVs, and that's been a new challenge.

"I'm really looking forward to the ELVs. They'll be introduced in the Vodacom Tri-Nations, so needless to say I've been working hard on my fitness. Watching a few of the games from the Super 14 has reinforced that it's really not an old man's game!"

Back for WP

Montgomery will return to France on Sunday following the second Test against Wales at Loftus Versfeld to turn out for Perpignan in their Top 14 semifinal clash against Clermont or Toulouse.

Depending on the result, it could be his last outing for the French outfit. He has recently re-signed for Western Province, and will be available for their Currie Cup campaign.

"It's a bit of a fairytale really, getting the chance to finish my career at the province where it all started. I'm really excited to be going back, and my family is as well. My son Nicholas in particular, because he'll be starting at SACS, my alma mater.

"For now, though, it's all about the Boks. I'm loving my rugby and just taking it game by game. It's a cliché, but it's worked for me so far."

Montgomery has played 95 Tests for the Boks. He has scored 878 points, including 25 tries, 150 conversions, 145 penalties and six drop goals.

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