South Africa’s Surprise Selection for Rugby World Cup Quarter-Final

In a stunning move, South Africa has opted to start Manie Libbok at fly-half in their upcoming quarter-final clash against hosts France in the Rugby World Cup. This unexpected decision comes despite Libbok’s inconsistent performance with the boot during their loss to Ireland earlier in the tournament.

The Springboks’ regular starting fly-half, Handre Pollard, is now available after recovering from injury and started their final Pool B game against Tonga. Many expected Pollard to reclaim his spot for this crucial knockout match, but head coach Jacques Nienaber has surprised everyone by sticking with Libbok.

Adding to the intrigue, Cobus Reinach has been chosen as the scrum-half partner for Libbok. Reinach replaces Faf de Klerk, who had been a key figure in South Africa’s campaign thus far. Nienaber believes that Reinach’s ability to handle France’s kicking game makes him better suited for this particular matchup.

Nienaber also made changes on the bench, opting for a 5-3 split of forwards to backs instead of selecting seven forwards as he did against Ireland. This shows his confidence in both his forward pack and backline depth heading into this crucial encounter.

South Africa Starting XV:

• Fullback: Willemse
• Wings: Arendse, Kolbe
• Centers: Kriel, De Allende
• Fly-Half: Libbok
• Scrum-Half: Reinach
• Props: Kitshoff, Malherbe
• Hooker: Mbonambi
• Locks: Etzebeth, Mostert
• Flankers: Kolisi (capt), Du Toit
• No. 8: Vermuelen

Bench Replacements:

• Fourie(Prop)
• Nche(Prop)
• Koch(Prop) Snyman(Lock) Smith(Flanker)
  De Klerk (Scrum-Half)
  

  Pollard(Fly-Half)

This bold selection by South Africa has certainly raised eyebrows and created a sense of anticipation for the upcoming quarter-final clash against France. Will Libbok prove his worth as the starting fly-half? Can Reinach effectively control the game at scrum-half?

The answers to these questions will be revealed on matchday as both teams battle it out for a spot in the Rugby World Cup semi-finals.