Mmegi Online 404 error page

Springboks select Manie Libbok at fly-half for England match

Manie Libbok will start at fly-half for South Africa against England, replacing the injured Sacha Feinberg-Mngomezulu. This selection comes despite competition from Handre Pollard, who was the starting fly-half in the 2019 and 2023 Rugby World Cup final victories. Libbok's inclusion is one of four changes to the Springbok side that defeated Ireland 24-13 in November. Other changes include Grant Williams at scrum-half and Kurt-Lee Arendse on the wing. Ox Nche is named at loosehead, with Malcolm Marx and Thomas du Toit completing the front row. The team also features experienced players like Eben Etzebeth, Siya Kolisi, and Pieter-Steph du Toit in the pack. Coach Rassie Erasmus has opted for a more conventional set of replacements, including five specialist forwards. Cheslin Kolbe and Damian Willemse are set to earn their 50th caps in the starting lineup.