As the Springboks gear up for their highly anticipated rematch against Argentina, there’s a lot of focus on the team’s lineup for the game in Nelspruit.
While the overall selection didn’t bring too many surprises, one key choice caught the attention of fans and analysts alike: Manie Libbok will start as flyhalf.
Libbok’s Opportunity Despite Criticism
Manie Libbok has been handed another chance to start at 10, despite facing criticism last weekend for missing a crucial goal that could have sealed victory in Argentina.
In a show of confidence, head coach Rassie Erasmus has decided to stick with him, recognizing Libbok’s overall contribution to the game.
Erasmus praised Libbok’s general play and energy on the field, noting that while goal-kicking is an area that needs improvement, the team as a whole will work on finding solutions.
“Manie’s playmaking abilities and control of the game are key to our strategy,” said Erasmus.
“It’s not just on him to fix the kicking; we’re planning around it as a team.”
Changes to the Starting Lineup
Rassie Erasmus has made nine changes and a single positional shift to the starting lineup from last week’s match against Argentina.
Six seasoned players, who boast two Rugby World Cup titles each, are back in action: Bongi Mbonambi, Frans Malherbe, Pieter-Steph du Toit, Cheslin Kolbe, Damian de Allende, and team captain Siya Kolisi.
This reshuffle sees the same forward pack that outplayed New Zealand in their recent clash, along with a bench stacked with five forwards.
The formidable centre pairing of De Allende and Jesse Kriel will lead the charge in the backline, supported by an experienced back three featuring Aphelele Fassi at fullback, and wingers Kurt-Lee Arendse and Cheslin Kolbe.
Impact Players on the Bench
The Springboks have ensured their bench is packed with talent.
Cobus Reinach, Handre Pollard, and Lukhanyo Am are set to bring depth and experience if called upon during the match.
With Pollard providing a reliable goal-kicking option, and Am known for his game-changing ability, the trio will be key in adding momentum later in the game.
Full Springbok Lineup vs Argentina
Starting XV:
- 15: Aphelele Fassi (8 caps, 20 points)
- 14: Cheslin Kolbe (37 caps, 96 points)
- 13: Jesse Kriel (76 caps, 85 points)
- 12: Damian de Allende (84 caps, 55 points)
- 11: Kurt-Lee Arendse (21 caps, 85 points)
- 10: Manie Libbok (17 caps, 94 points)
- 9: Jaden Hendrikse (17 caps, 12 points)
Forwards:
- 8: Jasper Wiese (30 caps, 5 points)
- 7: Pieter-Steph du Toit (83 caps, 45 points)
- 6: Siya Kolisi (88 caps, 60 points)
- 5: Ruan Nortje (5 caps)
- 4: Eben Etzebeth (127 caps, 30 points)
- 3: Frans Malherbe (75 caps, 5 points)
- 2: Bongi Mbonambi (74 caps, 75 points)
- 1: Ox Nche (36 caps)
Replacements:
- 16: Malcolm Marx (72 caps, 100 points)
- 17: Gerhard Steenekamp (7 caps)
- 18: Vincent Koch (57 caps)
- 19: Elrigh Louw (9 caps)
- 20: Kwagga Smith (48 caps, 45 points)
- 21: Cobus Reinach (36 caps, 70 points)
- 22: Handre Pollard (76 caps, 749 points)
- 23: Lukhanyo Am (39 caps, 35 points)
What’s Next?
The rematch promises to be a thrilling encounter, with Argentina eager to settle the score.
With key players returning to the Springbok squad and a strategic bench to support them, all eyes will be on Nelspruit this weekend to see if Libbok and the team can rise to the occasion.
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