Smit was captain of the South Africa team that won the World Cup

Smit, 29, who plays his club rugby for French side Clermont Auvergne, captained the Springboks to World Cup glory in France last year.

"To be offered the chance to continue with the Springboks is a challenge I would never refuse," he said.

De Villiers added: "He has global respect and he has the desire to add to what was achieved in France last year."

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Smit has captained the Springboks in a record 49 Tests since 2003 and was captain of the side for the whole of previous coach Jake White's time in charge.

"This is a new chapter for Springbok rugby, but I believe we must build on the success of the World Cup and it made sense to me to further invest in John's excellent leadership and his ability as a player," said de Villiers.