Springboks: Libbok or Pollard  for 10?

Handre Pollard has been called up to replace the injured Malcolm Marx. This leaves the Bok Squad with two starting flyhalves and one space. Both are accomplished flyhalves in their own right, they bring their unique strengths to the national setup. The question is: who should don the number 10 jersey for the Springboks?

PLAYER COMPARISON

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POLLARD

Handre Pollard, a top-notch flyhalf, he was a key player in the Springboks’ 2019 Rugby World Cup victory, chipping in with a whopping 22 points out of the team’s 32 in the final match. He’s proven he’s got that BMT in spades, and his kicking skills are a real asset. His biggest weakness- he tends to play quite flat, often favoring one-man runs or taking it up himself. This style can sometimes lock the Boks into a forward-heavy, “10-man rugby” mode, leaving the outside backs with fewer opportunities to shine.

• Age: 29
• Caps: 65
• Points:665
• Record: P65 W38 D1 L26

LIBBOK

Manie Libbok brings a different dimension to the game. As a two-time URC finalist and one-time champion, he boasts a winning record when starting for the Boks, with one recent loss to Ireland as an exception. His style exudes confidence in attack, enabling those around him to express themselves fully. Libbok’s presence means the outside backs get plenty of action, and the forwards start playing with a bit more flair and versatility. However, one concern that looms for Bok fans is his less-than-perfect kicking, raising questions about whether his occasional inaccuracies could prove costly in a tightly contested match where small margins make all the difference.

• Age: 26
• Caps: 10
• Points: 74
• Record: P11 W8 D0 L3

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LIBBOK AND POLLARD?

Can the Springbok coaching staff effectively incorporate both Libbok and Pollard into the same team? Given the exceptional qualities both players bring to the table, finding the right balance becomes crucial.

🇿🇦 Manie Libbok on the return of Handre Pollard. #RSA #RWC2023 pic.twitter.com/vVzHh9qkYa

— Jared Wright (@jaredwright17) September 21, 2023

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OPTION 1: PLAY ONE, BENCH ONE

The simplest solution is to have one of them start at the flyhalf position while the other serves as a backup. This setup offers some flexibility, especially if one of them isn’t quite on their A-game on a given day.

OPTION 2: LIBBOK AT 10, POLLARD AT 12

Another possibility is deploying Handre Pollard at inside center while Manie Libbok plays in his customary 10f role. Pollard’s physicality and ability to take the ball to the gainline could complement this setup. However, it’s worth noting that Damian de Allende and André Esterhuizen have been outstanding in the 12 jersey, making this option a bit crowded.

OPTION 3: POLLARD AT 10, LIBBOK AT 15

Alternatively, Handre Pollard is selected at number 10 while Manie Libbok slots in at 15. Similarly, to the way, Willie le Roux often acts as a second flyhalf. Libbok joining the backline to spark creativity. The challenge here is that both Willemse and le Roux have been stellar in the fullback position, making a change a difficult decision.

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The Springbok coaching staff faces a challenging dilemma: how to maximize the talents of both Libbok and Pollard without disrupting the successful dynamics of the team. Maybe they should apply the horses-for-courses approach. Who do you think should start at 10 for the Boks? Let us know in the comments below.

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