Morne Steyn is delighted with the form of Manie Libbok, but worries about what the Springboks will do if something happens to their only recognised flyhalf at the World Cup.
Libbok is in France with the world champions for his first World Cup in only his second year of Test rugby, and as the Boks’ likely first-choice pivot after veteran playmaker Handre Pollard was omitted due to a calf injury.
While his game management, composure and tactical kicking was never in question, the 26-year-old’s erratic goalkicking raised eyebrows before a flawless performance from the tee in a record win against the All Blacks.
He will be backed up in front of the uprights at the World Cup by utility backs Cheslin Kolbe and Damian Willemse, as well as scrumhalf Faf de Klerk, but speaking on the Behind the Ruck Podcast with fellow former Boks Juan de Jongh and Rudy Paige, Steyn raised his concerns.
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“I think it’s on everyone’s lips why we’re only taking one 10, and I think it’s a sad and difficult part for us going to a World Cup relying on a guy like Faf, who’s not a regular kicker, Cheslin Kolbe who’s not a regular kicker,” the 68-Test Steyn said.
“To rely on him if something happens to Manie or Manie’s not on rhythm on the day and then rely on someone like him or Damian, it’s quite a sad topic.
“I must say I’m enjoying Manie at 10, he’s doing very well and I’m happy for him, but I don’t think we can just rely on him to do everything.”
However, he has a special message for the Boks and Libbok, adding: “For the whole squad, we’ve done so well over the last couple of years we don’t need to change anything. We just have to play our game … we’ve got Rassie there, who’s probably one of the best and cleverest coaches in the world so he’ll definitely have a plan.
“And for Manie, just to enjoy every moment; it’s a great thing to play a World Cup, and for the Springboks, it’s an amazing feeling and opportunity.
“So just do what you do, and what you did for the Stormers as well. You don’t have to change anything or show anyone what you can do, you’ve already shown it.”
On whether the legendary Bok and Vodacom Bulls points machine is a standby for Erasmus and Jacques Nienaber in case of emergency, Steyn joked: “I still keep my phone on, maybe something comes through!”
Photo: Lefty Shivambu/Gallo Images