By Gavin Rich.
Springbok newcomer Manie Libbok has hinted that the world champions will continue with the more adventurous approach they employed against France when they face Italy in Genoa on Saturday afternoon.
Libbok will get his second cap to go with his debut appearance in Marseille if he gets onto the field on Saturday, which he is expected to do as he is the one outside back reserve covering several positions as the Boks revert to the six/two bomb squad split between backs and forwards that has worked for them since the 2019 Rugby World Cup.
The 24-year-old Stormers flyhalf did not get much game time at the Stade Velodrome, just a few minutes at the end, but he came on at a crucial stage, with the Boks chasing the game after conceding the lead to a debatable French try.
He did some good things, including the short kick-off that enabled the Boks to retain possession (which they surrendered to a suspect turn-over) off the last play of the game.
However, it was watching the Boks run the ball back at the French when he was on the bench for the first 74 minutes that most excited Libbok, and while that approach was determined by the specific threat posed by France, he suggests it might be employed again in Genoa.
“Last week we had a plan against France, as we knew there would be opportunities (to run), and we were really excited about that, to go out and execute the plan,” said Libbok.
“And it was really nice to see that plan executed from the side. Italy is similar in their tactics. We have plans for them and we are well prepared for it.”
A more running game would suit Libbok, as it is what he is used to at the Stormers, the franchise he has flourished at after struggling to become a permanent member of the starting team at first the Bulls and then the Sharks.
SPECIAL MOMENT
He attributes his rise to eminence to the two players he dovetailed with so well in the Stormers’ march to the first Vodacom United Rugby Championship title, Damian Willemse and Warrick Gelant, as well as Stormers head coach John Dobson.
“Obviously having Damian and Warrick in the same backline helped me a lot, particularly with the attacking side, as they helped me with seeing where the space was to attack. The communication was very good, “says Libbok.
“What was also big for me personally was the fact that John Dobson had the confidence in me that he had. I always felt that I had his backing every time I ran onto the field and that made a huge difference to me. He encouraged me to play what was in front of me. He helped me a lot. I am very grateful to him for seeing something in me and bringing me to the Stormers and giving me an opportunity to play.
“He liked my game and what could bring and had good ideas on how I could develop and grow my confidence, and that helped a lot,” he added.
Libbok said his first feel of the Bok jersey on the eve of the Marseille game was a special moment for him, as was his arrival on the field as a replacement.
“It was something I dreamed of since I was a little kid, so it was very special for me. When I got onto the field I was so energetic that I just wanted to get the ball in my hands and play. I wanted to run. If I got the ball from the kick-off when I cam on I would probably just have run with it.”
Libbok is not too worried about the prospect he might come on in Genoa to play a position other than the flyhalf position he has become used to at the Stormers and which he was selected to back up on this tour.
“Apart from flyhalf I can also cover fullback, and I am also capable of covering centre, both inside centre or No 13. I am pleased I can do that as it means I can help out the team if I am needed there. It is a big honour for me to just pull on the Springbok jersey, so I will play any role that I am asked to play.”