Faf de Klerk has welcomed the return of regular Springbok halfback partner Handre Pollard, who he says has a “calm demeanour” in high-pressure situations.
The Springboks have several selection quandaries for Sunday’s World Cup quarter-final against tournament hosts France in Paris.
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Lukhanyo Am has returned to the squad as an injury replacement for Makazole Mapimpi and could push for a first start of the tournament, while there is also a decision to make at No 8, where veteran Duane Vermeulen and in-form Jasper Wise are ready to fire.
However, Handre Pollard’s successful comeback in a 50-minute start against Tonga, where he kicked four successful goals, has given the Bok coaches more food for thought.
Pollard missed out on the original 33-player squad due to a calf injury, which meant Manie Libbok was the only specialist flyhalf taken to France.
“It’s great to have Handre back. He’s part of the furniture,” said De Klerk, who partnered Pollard in the team that won the 2019 World Cup final.
“I think his calm demeanour on the field in big situations is really something that can help us a lot in playoff games.
“Then you have Manie who is paying unbelievably well. His organisation is great and he allows us to score great tries.”
Libbok started the campaign opener against Scotland and picked up a sensational try-assist with a no-look crossfield kick, but his goalkicking came under fire in the loss to Ireland. The Stormers playmaker did bounce back when he played off the bench against Tonga, slotting three out of three kicks at goal, including one from the touchline.
“There’s a good balance between the two of them,” De Klerk added. “Any one of them can get the nod. I’m just fortunate to be able to pass the ball to them.”
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Photo: Phill Magakoe/AFP