The world champions demonstrated a new tactic in their recent victory over New Zealand and, with two victories under their belt in Pool B, they are prepared to wreak havoc on the top-ranked team in the world.
Back in 2019, the replacements on the bench were humorously referred to as ‘The Bomb-Squad’ due to their impressive impact on the team’s World Cup victory.
This time, they have taken it up a notch, with the inclusion of Jean Kleyn and RG Snyman from Munster.
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As for cover in the backline, scrum-half Cobus Reinach is the sole recognized player, although Kwagga Smith, who usually plays in the back-row, could also be used in the center position if necessary.
Deon Fourie, typically a back-row player, will provide cover for hooker Bongi Mbonambi, while Ox Nche and Trevor Nkayane are ready to replace Steven Kitshoff and Frans Malherbe in case they start to tire.
The inclusion of Marco van Staden and Kwagga Smith will bring energy to the team, with the clear intention of overpowering and outlasting Andy Farrell’s side throughout the entire match.
It’s worth noting that Handre Pollard, who joined the Springboks yesterday, will not be participating. Instead, Manie Libbok will start at out-half and partner with Faf de Klerk, who can cover the No. 10 position if needed.
Damian Willemse is also available as cover for the fly-half position, while Cheslin Kolbe and Kurt-Lee Arendse occupy the wing positions. In midfield, there are Damian de Allende and Jesse Kriel.
In the second-row, Eben Etzebeth is fit to start alongside Franco Mostert. Siya Kolisi leads the team from the back-row, where he is joined by Pieter-Steph du Toit and Jasper Wiese.
“Ireland are a quality team with a strong pack of forwards and talented backs, and they play with a lot of speed, so we know what we have to do to deliver a top-drawer performance for things to go our way,” said coach Jacques Nienaber.
“We faced them late last year and we’ve been keeping an eye on their performances this year, so everyone knows what we have to do this weekend.
“Fortunately, we have a squad that is match-fit and we have been focusing on building depth and versatility. We believe that this is the best combination for this match. Many of these players have World Cup experience and know what it takes to perform at this level. We believe this team has the right balance of players to achieve what we want in this match.
“We are aware that it’s going to be a tough match and we need to be physically and mentally prepared. We must start with intensity and maintain focus until the final whistle.
“This is a significant game for both teams, with the aim of advancing from our pool, so we need to be extremely precise in all aspects of our game.”
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