South Africa’s rugby team, the Springboks, have unveiled their starting XV for the upcoming Rugby World Cup defense in France. Head coach Jacques Nienaber has the task of selecting the best players from a talented squad, and he believes that this lineup has the ability to beat any team in the world and successfully defend their World Cup title.
The front row of Kitshoff, Marx, and Malherbe is regarded as one of the strongest in world rugby, particularly when it comes to scrummaging. Their dominance in the scrum will give the Springboks an advantage, either through winning penalties or gaining momentum in the game. Additionally, Kitshoff and Marx contribute with their skills in the breakdown, while all three players excel in carrying the ball.
Another key player in the Springboks’ forward pack is Etzebeth, who is an expert in line-outs and a powerful ball carrier. Alongside him, RG Snyman is considered a surprise inclusion due to his ability to offload in the tackle, which could add another dimension to the already formidable Springbok forwards.
Captain Siya Kolisi is a vital part of the team, renowned for his leadership qualities and all-around skills. He excels in wide positions, carries the ball with strength, makes a significant impact defensively, and is effective at the breakdown. Partnering him is du Toit, forming an experienced and intimidating combination. Du Toit is known for his relentless work rate, contributing more tackles and carries than most players in any given game.
Vermeulen, another leader on the field, is a strong ball carrier and, like the others, provides an additional option at the breakdown. With a combination of these potential fetchers, the Springboks have a great chance of winning the Rugby World Cup.
In terms of the backline, Jaden Hendrikse has been chosen based on his impressive performances for the team last season. He has shown better form than Faf de Klerk and has proven to be a more accurate box kicker. However, it is likely that the coaches will stick with de Klerk due to his experience and contributions to the team’s success in the past few years.
In the absence of Handre Pollard, Libbok is considered the best available option at fly-half. If Pollard were to return from injury, he would likely replace Libbok in the starting lineup, with Libbok moving to fly-half. This combination would leverage Libbok’s attacking prowess and Pollard’s kicking abilities.
Arendse, a so-called bolter, has been in scintillating form, scoring 10 tries in his first 8 starts for South Africa. Due to his exceptional form and defensive abilities, he is chosen over Mapimpi. The midfield partnership consists of de Allende and Kriel, who are expected to form a formidable duo. Finally, Kolbe’s pace and excellent defense secure him a spot in the starting lineup, as he is widely regarded as one of the best players in the world. Le Roux, with his ability to create space for the outside backs, completes the backline.
With a combination of experience, youth, speed, and strength, this Springboks team is deemed strong enough to win the Rugby World Cup if all the chosen players start.
