Potential Absence of Key Flyhalf
The Springboks may be without flyhalf Handre Pollard for their upcoming second Test against the All Blacks in Cape Town. This potential absence comes as the team prepares for a critical rematch following their 33-16 loss to New Zealand at Ellis Park.
Pollard, a two-time Rugby World Cup winner, is known for his composure and kicking prowess. His selection for the upcoming match had been a significant talking point, with some observers noting it signals a potential return to a more conservative game plan for the Springboks.
Rugby analyst Joel Stransky commented on Pollard’s inclusion, stating that the decision to select him suggests coach Rassie Erasmus is reinforcing his established strategy. Stransky highlighted Pollard’s maturity, stability, and ability to effectively conclude a game, along with his extensive experience and knowledge.
Pollard had replaced Sacha Feinberg-Mngomezulu, who started the previous match but reportedly struggled to control the game. Feinberg-Mngomezulu has since moved to the bench.
Strategic Implications for the Springboks
The potential unavailability of Pollard could influence the Springboks’ tactical approach. Stransky expressed some concern that with Pollard at flyhalf, the team might not utilize the full width of the field or employ as many attacking options, potentially leading to a more predictable style of play.
However, Stransky also acknowledged that this approach could be beneficial, particularly if the scrum performs well and the team maintains a strong physical presence. He suggested that if conditions in Cape Town are damp or rainy, Pollard’s kicking ability and stability would be crucial for controlling territory and converting penalty goals.
The Springboks had previously aimed to physically dominate the All Blacks in the first Test, focusing on winning scrum and maul penalties and frequently opting for kicks rather than running the ball through phases. Pollard’s attributes are seen as aligning with this style of play.
The team’s performance in the first Test saw them trailing 19-16 at one point, missing a penalty opportunity directly in front of the posts. Stransky believes that Pollard’s presence would ensure such opportunities are converted, bringing a level of consistency that was perhaps lacking in the previous encounter.
Leadership and Team Dynamics
In other team news, Siya Kolisi has returned to captain the Springboks, having successfully completed fitness sessions to assess his hamstring injury. His return is considered a significant boost for the team, particularly in terms of leadership and communication with match officials.
Kolisi sustained a hamstring injury approximately three weeks prior during a match against Argentina, which the Springboks won 17-10. Coach Rassie Erasmus confirmed that Kolisi had recovered without discomfort after undergoing full-out running tests.
During Kolisi’s absence, Pieter-Steph du Toit had taken on the captaincy. Erasmus noted that Du Toit was relieved to focus solely on his game for his 100th Test cap in Cape Town, rather than managing additional captaincy responsibilities. Paul de Villiers, who was initially bracketed with Kolisi, will not be part of the 23-man squad for the second Test.
Erasmus also mentioned that wing Cheslin Kolbe was “looking good,” suggesting a possible late inclusion, which might lead to Ethan Hooker dropping out of the squad. The All Blacks’ coach, Dave Rennie, expressed confidence that his team would improve for the second Test, anticipating continued physicality from the Springboks but also expecting more accuracy from them.
Source: news24.com
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