Former Springbok hooker Schalk Brits has revealed his solution to South Africa’s World Cup flyhalf conundrum in deciding between Handre Pollard and Manie Libbok.
Initially picked as the only specialist flyhalf in the original 33-player squad, Libbok now faces stiff competition for a starting role from fit-again Pollard.
Libbok started the crucial World Cup pool matches against Scotland and Ireland. While he was a hit with the ball in hand, he struggled with his goal-kicking consistency.
Pollard, who was recalled after a tournament-ending injury to Malcolm Marx, provided a good answer to the Boks’ woes in front of goal by slotting four out of four on his return to the team in the final pool game against Tonga.
This has prompted questions over who the Springboks should back as the starting No 10, made more difficult as Libbok kicked three out of three when he replaced Pollard.
“I’ll make a prediction: they will start with Pollard, they’ll go with a six-two split, and they will put Manie on the bench,” Brits told the Official Rugby World Cup 2023 podcast.
“The backline moves better with Libbok there; he brings some x-factor to that team. Maybe the six-two split is a better combination for us.”
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Brits was joined by former Scotland No 8 Johnnie Beattie, who further argued Pollard’s case for a starting role.
“Statistically, Libbok is under 80 per cent [for goal kicking], so if you want your sure thing, you’ve got Pollard back from injury, you go with Pollard. It’s a no-brainer.
“That’s [Libbok’s no-look cross-field kick] not going to win you World Cups, is it? Libbok has been phenomenal in the URC with his franchise in South Africa but, if you’re ticking under 80 per cent on your top-level goal-kicker, you’re leaving 11 points out there against Ireland.
“You take those points, you win the game. I fully expect Pollard to be their starter.”
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