In the world of rugby, every match is a thrilling showdown, and the Rugby World Cup is where legends are made. As the South African national team, the Springboks, gear up to face Tonga in a crucial Pool B match at Stade de Marseille, there are some significant changes happening in their lineup. Let’s dive into the details of these changes and what they mean for the upcoming clash.
The Big Switch: Handre Pollard at Number 10
One of the most notable changes is the selection of Handre Pollard as the starting fly-half (number 10) for the Springboks. This is a significant move as Pollard hasn’t played a Test match since August 2022. The decision to start Pollard comes as Manie Libbok takes a seat on the bench for this match. Moreover, Faf de Klerk is conspicuously missing from the matchday 23 altogether.
The Overhaul: 12 Changes in the Starting Lineup
Springboks head coach Jacques Nienaber has opted for a major overhaul of the starting lineup after their intense 13-8 loss to Ireland in Paris. The changes indicate a strong desire to secure a victory against Tonga.
Siya Kolisi Leads the Way
Siya Kolisi, the dynamic flanker, will make his 50th appearance as captain, underlining his importance to the team. Alongside him, Eben Etzebeth and Jasper Wiese have retained their spots in the starting XV, highlighting their consistency and reliability.
The Front Row and Locks
Deon Fourie gets his first start in the Springbok jersey as the hooker, flanked by props Ox Nche and Vincent Koch. In the second row, Eben Etzebeth and Marvin Orie will provide the crucial strength and stability.
Back Row Adjustment
One change in the back row sees regular number eight Duane Vermeulen wearing the number seven jersey, joining forces with Kolisi and Wiese. This alteration aims to bring a fresh dynamic to the team’s forward play.
A Versatile Bench
Nienaber has crafted a bench with versatility in mind. Marco van Staden, a replacement hooker, joins the fray alongside prop replacements Steven Kitshoff and Trevor Nyakane. The versatile Franco Mostert and Kwagga Smith complete the forward complement on the bench. In the backline, Jaden Hendrikse, Jesse Kriel, and Manie Libbok are the options.
The Backline Reshuffle
Apart from the changes in the forwards, there are significant adjustments in the backline as well. Pollard, returning after a long injury layoff, will partner with scrum-half Cobus Reinach at half-back. Andre Esterhuizen and Canan Moodie are reunited as the hard-running center combination, and Makazole Mapimpi and Grant Williams will take their positions on the wings, just as they did against Romania.
Nienaber’s Thoughts on the Match
Springboks head coach Jacques Nienaber emphasized the physicality and strength of the team, traits essential when facing a passionate and forceful side like Tonga. He recognized the importance of this match for their quarter-final qualification and stressed the need for accurate execution and doing the basics right.
Nienaber also expects Tonga to bring a formidable challenge. Despite their losses in the opening two matches of the tournament, Tonga has shown moments of brilliance against Scotland and Ireland. This means the Springboks need to be prepared for a full 80-minute battle.
The Road Ahead
As the Springboks prepare to face Tonga, the focus is on progressing out of the pool stages and building momentum. The team is determined to defend their World Cup title, and they have the players and skills to do so. Now, it’s about translating their hard work in training into a top-quality performance on the field.
