Flyhalf Manie Libbok is looking forward to reigniting his halfback partnership with Grant Williams when the Springboks take on Italy in Port Elizabeth on Saturday.
Libbok will make his first Test appearance of the season after coming off the bench in the non-cap clash against the Barbarians in Cape Town.
With double World Cup winner Handre Pollard and highly rated Sacha Feinberg-Mngomezulu also competing for the Bok No 10 jersey, Saturday’s match gives Libbok a golden opportunity to remind coach Rassie Erasmus of his value.
“It will be the third game Grant and I play together, so I’m really looking forward to it,” said Libbok. “Much like I’m excited to have Andre [Esterhuizen] and Canan [Moodie] with us in the midfield, and Willie [le Roux] at the back.”
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Libbok says the Springbok backline boasts a good blend of experience and power.
“Canan and Andre started against England at Twickenham together, and it will be great to have their experience, along with [Makazole] Mapimpi and Willie’s, in the backline.”
The 27-year-old says the Boks are focused on delivering a sharper performance than they did in last week’s 42-24 win over Italy in Pretoria.
“The mindset in the team is good and we are really looking forward to the game. We’ve been very focused this week and locked in on the task at hand. Italy are definitely going to come hard at us, but I believe both sides will be up for what is going to be a great contest.”
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The 19-cap Bok also spoke about his pride in being part of a special day for Le Roux, who is set to earn his 100th.
“Willie is an incredible person, and he’s been helpful since the first time we played and trained together. I’m very excited to be with him on the field on this special occasion. Having played a handful of Tests, I know what a massive achievement this is, and we are all very proud of him.”
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Photo: Ashley Vlotman/Gallo Images
