Coach Rassie Erasmus believes Manie Libbok can lead the Springboks to victory in the Rugby Championship, despite facing criticism after their defeat to Argentina.
Libbok missed a crucial attempt in Argentina’s 29-28 victory over the Springboks in Santiago del Estero. Erasmus has, however, backed Libbok and scrumhalf Jaden Hendrikse by naming them in the run-on squad for this weekend’s fixture in Nelspruit, with Handre Pollard beginning on the bench.
Prior to the missed attempt, Libbok made an impact with his contestable kicking and passing, which helped the Boks get back into the game. However, the missed kick has highlighted his inadequacies from the tee.
Erasmus, on the other hand, has stated that they will do all possible to assist the playmaker restore confidence in front of the poles.
“Manie’s general play is fantastic, and he brings a lot of energy and play-making abilities to the backline. He dictates play well, so we back Manie fully to do the job for us at flyhalf,” Erasmus said.
“It’s not just up to him to find solutions for his goal kicking, it is something we have to do as a team, and we are working on a plan.”
Following Los Pumas’ home victory, Saturday’s Rugby Championship meeting between the two clubs will serve as a virtual decider. Even if they lose, the Springboks can still win the cup if they gain a point or Argentina does not get a winning bonus point.
The only scenario in which Argentina would take the title from the Boks is if Los Pumas win with a bonus point and deny the hosts a point, allowing them to clinch the title based on their two victories over South Africa.
Meanwhile, star lock Eben Etzebeth will become the most capped Springbok of all time at Mbombela Stadium. Etzebeth is back in the starting lineup after coming off the bench to tie Victor Matfield’s record last Saturday.
“As a former Springbok I can attest to what a massive achievement it will be for Eben to become the most capped Springbok ever, and we are all very proud of him and want to make this a special and memorable occasion for him,” Erasmus said.
