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Libbok Replaces Injured Feinberg-Mngomezulu as Springboks Face England

BBC Sport •
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Manie Libbok will start at fly-half for South Africa against England on Saturday, replacing the injured Sacha Feinberg-Mngomezulu. Coach Rassie Erasmus named a more conventional bench with five specialist forwards, scaling back from the seven-forward experiments of previous matches. Libbok's inclusion gives the Springboks a different tactical option at pivot.

Erasmus emphasized selecting experienced players alongside proven younger talent. He noted England's quality and expected them to give everything in the test. The coach's comments came after South Africa's 80-31 victory over a Barbarians side on June 20, showing attacking intent ahead of this crucial summer series.

Both Cheslin Kolbe and Damian Willemse earn their 50th caps in the starting lineup, marking significant milestones for the backline duo. Kolbe continues his return to international rugby while Willemse provides versatility across the back division. Their experience will be vital against a formidable England side.

The Springboks lineup features Willemse at fullback, Kolbe on the wing, and Libbok directing play alongside Williams at halfback. In the pack, Etzebeth and Kolisi lead a forward unit that includes Nche, Marx, and T du Toit. Andre Esterhuizen covers back-row from the bench, offering tactical flexibility in the closing stages.