The Springboks have made a bold decision for the Rugby World Cup final against the All Blacks. Head coach Jacques Nienaber has opted for a 7-1 split on the bench, choosing to have seven forwards and only one back as replacements. This strategy aims to give the team the best chance of success in the crucial match.
In the starting line-up, the experienced half-back duo of Handre Pollard and Faf de Klerk return to the field. They will be making their 25th start together, surpassing the previous record held by Joost van der Westhuizen and Henry Honiball. The battle-hardened midfield pairing of Damian de Allende and Jesse Kriel continue their work in the centres, while the back-three remains unchanged with Damian Willemse, Cheslin Kolbe, and Kurt-Lee Arendse.
The Springboks’ power pack is led by captain Siya Kolisi, who becomes the most capped Springbok captain at World Cups with 12 appearances. He is joined by veterans Duane Vermeulen and Pieter-Steph du Toit in the back-row. In the tight five, Eben Etzebeth and Franco Mostert continue their partnership in the second row, while Frans Malherbe, Steven Kitshoff, and Bongi Mbonambi form the front-row.
On the bench, the Springboks have opted for a versatile replacement in Deon Fourie as the hooker. The front-row options also include Ox Nche and Trevor Nyakane. Two Munster second-rowers, Jean Kleyn and RG Snyman, provide additional forward options, while Kwagga Smith and Jasper Wiese complete the loose forward replacements. The only backline player on the bench is Willie le Roux.
This Springboks line-up is the most experienced in history, with a total of 987 caps. Many of these players were part of the 2019 World Cup-winning team, which gives them valuable experience and knowledge of what to expect in the final. However, there are also players who will be playing in their first World Cup final, but they have proven themselves as warriors throughout the campaign.
Head coach Jacques Nienaber acknowledges the importance of this match and the need for a strong gameplan. The team has prepared for different scenarios and has made the decision to have a seven-one split on the bench to maximize their chances of success. Nienaber is excited about the plan and embraces the risk involved.
Nienaber also expresses his gratitude to all the players who have contributed to the team’s journey to the final. He recognizes the sacrifices made by the players and the coaching staff and is proud of the hope and excitement they have brought to the nation.
The Springboks are aware of the challenge they face against the All Blacks. The rivalry between the two teams is always intense, and in a World Cup final, it is expected to be even more so. The All Blacks have a strong and experienced squad, but the Springboks are confident in their abilities and are ready to give their all to bring joy to their nation.
The Rugby World Cup final between the Springboks and the All Blacks will take place at Stade de France in Paris. The kick-off is scheduled for 21:00 local time on Saturday, October 28. The match will be officiated by referee Wayne Barnes, with assistant referees Karl Dickson and Matthew Carley, and TMO Tom Foley.