Springboks Adapt with New Tactics and Injury Changes Ahead of Portugal Match

Posted : 19 July 2024

The Springboks' shift towards a more adventurous counter-attacking style before the last Rugby World Cup in France may have been influenced by an unexpected turn of events. During the 2022 end-of-year tour, Pieter-Steph du Toit’s early dismissal in a match against France in Marseille forced the South African team to adapt. With only 14 players on the field, the Boks' decision to aggressively return kicks appeared to be a strategic adjustment made out of necessity, revealing a new dimension to their play.

The prevailing view is that the approach to counter-attack from kicks was always part of the plan, particularly given France's penchant for kicking. However, this tactical shift had broader implications beyond just that single game. The Springboks continued to excel at attacking from opposition kicks and transitions, a strategy that became more refined over time. Despite criticisms of their style during the World Cup semifinals and finals, the weather conditions significantly influenced their approach in those crucial matches.

Since that Marseille game, the Springboks have undergone further evolution, particularly with the addition of Tony Brown as the attack coach. On the eve of South Africa's historic match against Portugal in Bloemfontein, the team faces added significance due to a mini injury crisis following their series against Ireland. Key players such as Pieter-Steph du Toit, Malcolm Marx, and Franco Mostert are unavailable, which necessitates experimenting with new selections and providing opportunities for others.

In light of these injuries, players like Stormers blindside flank Ben-Jason Dixon, who is often compared to Du Toit, now have a chance to secure a starting position in the Rugby Championship. Additionally, hookers Johan Grobbelaar and Andre-Hugo Venter are in contention for the match day squad due to Marx’s six-week absence. RG Snyman, usually a Bomb Squad specialist, will have the opportunity to demonstrate his potential as a regular starter alongside the captain for the day, Moerat.

Manie Libbok, making his season debut, will be an intriguing player to watch as he brings his X-factor and distribution skills to the Bok attack. His role could parallel debates seen in England regarding flyhalves, with Libbok offering a dynamic option in the absence of an experienced alternative like Handre Pollard. Other positions, such as the No 8 role, will also be under scrutiny, with Evan Roos having another chance to prove himself in this area.

As South Africa prepares to face Portugal, they do so with a more experienced squad than two years ago, following a narrow defeat in a similarly experimental game. The presence of seasoned players like Jan-Hendrik Wessels, Lukhanyo Am, and Makazole Mapimpi is expected to provide stability and prevent any potential calamities. Portugal, led by Tomas Appleton, will face a tough challenge, and while they have shown competitiveness in past matches, it is anticipated that the Springboks will secure a comfortable victory as the game progresses.

Springboks Adapt with New Tactics and Injury Changes Ahead of Portugal Match

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