Springboks: Implications of each bench formation, who MISSES out – EXPLAINED
Jacques Nienaber has used three bench formations – 7-1, 6-2 and 5-3. Here are the implications of each – who misses out, who plays and the Springboks gameplan.
Jacques Nienaber has used three bench formations – 7-1, 6-2 and 5-3. Here are the implications of each – who misses out, who plays and the Springboks gameplan.
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At Rugby World Cup 2023 and throughout the season the Springboks have used three main bench splits.
The 6-2 has been there go to whilst the controversial 7-1 split and 5-3 have also been used to good effect. So, lets take a look at the implications of each of these bench formations in terms of who misses out, who is likely to play and what it means in terms of the Boks gameplan.
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In all formations, there will be a front-row, a lock, a loose-forward and a scrumhalf replacement.
Amongst the forwards, Ox Nche, Deon Fourie, Vincent Koch (or Trevor Nyakane) will be on the bench. Furthermore, RG Snyman will be a super sub with Kwagga Smith (or Marco van Staden) providing cover for the loose forwards. Reinach is likely to cover for Faf while Manie Libbok and Handre Pollard are interchangeable (with the opposing flyhalf benching for whoever starts).
THE COMMON 6-2 SPLIT
This has been the most utilized bench split by Nienaber and Rassie Erasmus this season. With 6 six forwards and two backline players on the bench.
Therefore, there is only space for a scrumhalf and flyhalf of utility back. If this formation is used, Cobus Reinach (or Faf de Klerk) will sit on the bench with either Handre Pollard or Manie Libbok.
WHO MISSES OUT: In this formation, either Jean Kleyn or Marco van Staden are likely to miss out. Furthermore, Willie le Roux or Damian Willemse will miss out with no space for the likes of Lukhanyo Am and Canan Moodie. Jesse Kriel has been brilliant at 13 for the Boks this season so he is likely to start moving forward.
THE GAMEPLAN: The intention here is for forward dominance with two key positions being covered. Thus, enabling set-piece dominance and back-up in the backline, if needed.
CONTROVERSIAL 7-1, THE ‘NUKE’ SQUAD
This formation was made famous when the Springboks beat NZ 35-7 in Twickenham in what was a record margin against their age-old rivals. Therefore, it was highly affective on that day. In this formation seven forwards will come on (almost an entire new forward pack). There is only space for one back on the bench which is likely to be Reinach (or Faf). We are unlikely to see this again in the Rugby World Cup with Pollard now back in the picture.
WHO MISSES OUT: In this formation, there is no space for Handre Pollard (or Libbok) and Le Roux/Willemse.
THE GAMEPLAN: The intention is for the forwards that start to empty the tank and wear down their opponents. Then, for the Nuke squad to be diffused to finish them off. It is very risky because of their only being one backline replacement. Therefore, if a backline star is injured it could disrupt the whole backline.
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BALANCED BOKS 5-3 FORMATION
This is the most balanced formation as it allows for 5 forwards and three backs on the bench.
Therefore, there is space for a scrumhalf, flyhalf and additional back (fullback, utility back or centre). It allows for cover across the park with more versatile players selected on the bench. This was used to eliminate hosts France 29-28 in a very famous night in Paris.
WHO MISSES OUT: Jean Kleyn, Marco van Staden, Jasper Wiese, Am/Kriel, Willie/Willemse (in both cases it depends on who the coaches start).
THE GAMEPLAN: Balance. Forwards set the tone with a solid set piece foundation and enterprising play between the backs and forwards. Enough impact off the bench in all areas to turn the game around.