Springbok flyhalf Manie Libbok expects there to be a target on his back at Loftus Versfeld on Saturday, but is ready for anything the Australians throw at him.
Libbok will start for the first time in the green and gold in the 2023 Rugby Championship opener, after making three appearances off the bench in his debut Test season last year.
He is partnered at half-back by scrumhalf Cobus Reinach, who makes his first run-on outing since the final match of the 2021 campaign.
The South African and Vodacom URC’s form No 10 this year, the DHL Stormers’ Libbok is a natural attacking pivot who adds a dimension to any team and thrives on the big occasion.
Speaking in a Bok media conference this week, the 25-year-old addressed the challenge of facing the Wallabies, while sharing his experiences of training with seasoned Bok playmakers Handre Pollard and Elton Jantjies.
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“To be honest, I made peace with that fact. I know there’s going to be pressure, there’s no getting around that. Even if the Australians don’t say so explicitly, I know they’re going to come for and target me,” Libbok told reporters.
“The important thing, for me, remains to be in control of what I can control. I make sure I have my ducks in a row, being prepared to the best of my ability.
“Because when you do that, you go a long way towards granting yourself the freedom and comfort to express yourself as a player, to stamp your authority on the game.
“It also really helps to have so many experienced teammates around me. They’re going to help me a lot.”
He added: “My interactions with Elton have been so important, I’ve learnt some invaluable things from him.
“He’s willing to share his insights and has done so much to make things comfortable for me, to keep me calm. I’m really grateful for him and Handre.”
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After plying his trade at the Vodacom Bulls and Sharks before becoming a regular starter at the Stormers, Libbok admitted it had not always been an easy road to travel, but it paved the way for where he is today.
“Looking back at where my career began to where I am now, it wasn’t easy, but I’m grateful for those tough times and to be here [at the Boks],” he said. “It helped me learn more as a player and develop under different coaches, but it also built character.
“I’ve always wanted to become a Springbok and I knew that in order to achieve that I had to keep my head down and keep working, so I am honoured to have this opportunity to play.”
It’s all about altitude and attitude as @mark_keohane and Zels make their picks for the Boks’ Rugby Championship opener against the Wallabies. pic.twitter.com/6zosHwNjtk
— SA Rugby magazine (@SARugbymag) July 6, 2023
Photo: EPA/Kim Ludbrook