Bakkies Botha says he is only on tour with the Springboks to thank Jake White for all he has done as coach of the South African rugby team.

Botha, who will be one of the key players when the Springboks play Wales at the Millennium Stadium on Saturday, revealed his thoughts on Wednesday.

"I even left my son (who was two weeks old on Thursday) behind to come play in a test for Jake," he said.

"Jake has succeeded during the past four years in providing us with peace of mind regarding team selections. In that way he ensured that the players were able to produce their best."

The Bulls lock also said he has already started thinking about the future after rugby. "This is the job I have chosen but at some stage one has to make decisions in the interest of your family," he said.

"I realised during the World Cup tournament that being away for long periods had a negative influence on my wife and out daughter and son."

Botha and CJ van der Linde have a big role to play against Wales on Saturday.

"It is expected of CJ and me to take the pack forward. The new guys provide a lot of energy, but a lot depends on CJ and me," he said.