In a move that will come as a shock to many rugby fans, especially those up north, Western Province centre Robbie Fleck has officially been appointed vice-captain of the Springboks.

Fleck fulfilled that role the first time in the Port Elizabeth Test against Italy, but on Tuesday coach Harry Viljoen offered him the role on a more permanent basis. Fleck will now be his close friend Bob Skinstad's second in command.

Although Fleck is looking forward to the challenge and believes it will help him lifts his game, he admitted he must be one of the "unlikeliest" Springbok vice-captains ever.

The explosive attacker has a reputation as a bit of a firebrand and had his fair quota of run-ins with referees, resulting in a number of yellow cards.

"I initially thought I would get more tense, but it helped me focus and concentrate on what I had to do rather than off-the-ball things. I see the game from a different point of view now and have a more mature attitude," Fleck told the Cape Times on Wednesday.

After the Super 12 some observers were convinced that Fleck's form didn't warrant inclusion in the Springbok squad for the training camp at Plettenberg Bay. His shaky form forced Stormers coach Alan Solomons to keep Fleck on the substitutes' bench for the last couple of games.

Viljoen, however, had faith in Fleck's game-breaking abilities and after failing to make the starting line-up for the first Test against France, the Province star was included in the starting line-up for the following two.

"It just got a little too much for me in the super 12 and I needed a break, which Solly gave me. When I got back, the Bok management gave me the assurance that they would give me time. They put a lot of confidence in me and I clearly want to repay their faith," said Fleck.

Skinstad told Die Burger he was looking forward to working with the 25-year-old Fleck. "And that has nothing to do with our friendship," said Skinstad. "Fleckie has always flourished when he has responsibility. He wasn't a member of the student council at school for nothing," the captain joked.

"I believe he will fulfil this role with distinction. The fact that we know each other very well will naturally make things easier but the job has been given to him and we can develop into a good combination," he said.

Fleck said he did not have to think about it for too long when Bok coach Harry Viljoen approached him with the offer.

"Harry asked me yesterday (Tuesday) if I see my way clear for the job," said Fleck. "It was not such a big surprise as the earlier appointment in Port Elizabeth.

"I accepted it because I consider it to be a huge challenge. I believe the extra responsibility will bring out the best in me and that is eventually all to the advantage of the team," said Fleck.