Springbok centre Jean de Villiers received the perfect international send off ahead of his high-profile move to Munster.
The former Stormers star was among the try scorers as South Africa clinched their first Tri Nations crown in five years thanks to a 32-29 victory over the All Blacks.
De Villiers crossed for a crucial second-half score to help secure the Boks’ third successive victory over New Zealand in what could be his last appearance in South African colours.
The 28-year-old, who made his international debut back in 2002 and has more than 50 caps to his name, leaves his homeland to join the reigning Magners League Champions and former Heineken Cup winners on Thursday of this week.
"I don’t think I could have asked for a better way to go off to Munster than lifting the Tri-Nations with a win like this behind our backs,” said de Villiers, who was part of the South African side that defeated Ian McGeechan’s Lions earlier this summer.
"It’s fantastic. We’ve now beaten them (New Zealand) three times, but next year they will come back again harder and they’ll be tougher.
"It’s all very emotional right now, but a great way to end off. Hopefully I’ll be back to play in the green and gold some time in the future."
And de Villiers gave credit to his namesake and national coach Peter who he says has come in for unfair criticism since taking over from Jake White.
The former Baby Bok boss has led his side to the top of the IRB World Rankings with 11 victories in their last 13 internationals and Jean believes he will continue to take the Springboks forward.
"I think Peter has taken a lot of criticism. But the fact is he is the right guy for the job at the right time," added Jean.
"A lot has been said of his coaching and style, ability and management with senior players. He got it spot on and worked well to get the victories and he must take credit for being able to bring the team together and keep them together. The glory must go to him."
