Rassie Erasmus Explains Why Sacha Feinberg-Mngomezulu Keeps Starting for Boks Ahead of Manie Libbok
- Rassie Erasmus revealed the two specific qualities that determined his No 10 selection for Saturday's fourth Test against the All Blacks
- Sacha Feinberg-Mngomezulu keeps his starting berth ahead of Manie Libbok for a fifth consecutive Test in Baltimore
- Erasmus hinted at a change at flyhalf when South Africa faces Australia on 26 September, with Handré Pollard nearing full fitness
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Springbok coach Rassie Erasmus has confirmed Sacha Feinberg-Mngomezulu will start at flyhalf for a fifth consecutive Test as South Africa prepares to face New Zealand in the fourth and final match of the Rugby's Greatest Rivalry series at M&T Bank Stadium in Baltimore on Saturday.
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Manie Libbok, who covered much of last week's 29-24 victory at No 10 after a backline reshuffle caused by Cheslin Kolbe's injury, drops back to the replacements bench.
Erasmus explained on Monday that two factors ultimately swung selection in Feinberg-Mngomezulu's favour: his defensive reliability and Libbok's proven ability to cope under pressure later in matches.
Why Feinberg-Mngomezulu keeps the No 10 jersey
Erasmus highlighted the All Blacks’ attacking style as a major factor behind starting Sacha Feinberg-Mngomezulu. New Zealand’s speed and ability to turn linebreaks into scoring chances demand a strong scramble defence, with their runners capable of breaking through and finishing attacks.
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He also stressed that no defensive structure can guarantee keeping New Zealand from scoring, which makes the pace and work rate of individual defenders particularly important.
Erasmus believes young, energetic players such as Feinberg-Mngomezulu can provide valuable speed and intensity, while experienced players contribute composure. He considers the balance between those qualities crucial to the team.
Erasmus acknowledged that Feinberg-Mngomezulu is still rebuilding his match fitness and form following a lengthy injury layoff, with the upcoming match only his fourth game since returning. Despite that, the coach remains confident in the roles assigned to both players.
Libbok trusted to manage the final stages
Erasmus explained that Manie Libbok can provide a reliable option from the bench, with the Springboks confident he can step in early if Sacha Feinberg-Mngomezulu is forced off injured.
He also noted that Libbok could be particularly valuable later in matches, as was the case the previous weekend.
Looking ahead to South Africa’s match against Australia on 26 September, Erasmus indicated that Handré Pollard is close to returning and is likely to feature in that fixture.
He stressed that maintaining consistency remains an important factor in the selection process.
All Blacks reshuffle squad ahead of Baltimore decider
Briefly News previously reported that the All Blacks have made changes to their touring group after their 29-24 defeat to the Springboks at FNB Stadium on Saturday, 5 September 2026.
New Zealand will head into the Baltimore decider needing a victory to level the 4-Test series, while the Springboks require one more win to claim the overall contest.
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Source: Briefly News
