Local coach backs Boks for RWC
Hoerskool Kempton Park first-team rugby coach Buckie King gives his opinion on the Springbok’s chances of clinching this year’s Rugby World Cup.
The 2023 Rugby World Cup is upon us.
This year’s tournament is in France from September 9 to October 28.
The Springboks will defend their title against 19 other nations during the showpiece.
Everyone has their opinion on how they think our squad will perform.
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The Kempton Express asked local rugby coaches to share their opinions on the Bok squad, how they think they will perform, and our strengths and weaknesses.
Hoërskool Kempton Park deputy principal and first-team rugby coach Buckie King spoke to Kempton Express.
“We definitely stand a chance to win the World Cup again. It’s either us or New Zealand who will take it,” he said.
He added that he felt there were players left out of the squad who should have been included.
“I would have loved to see Handre Pollard because he is a proper goal kicker.
“I believe Manie Libbok is a good player, especially on attack, but he lacks some kicking skills, and, unfortunately, you win World Cups by kicking penalties,” he said.
Buckie said Jesse Kriel was not his favourite and would prefer Lukhanyo Am instead, but unfortunately, he is injured. Otherwise, he said the team had depth.
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“Our biggest competition is New Zealand.
“We would likely get them in the semifinals based on how the pools are set up,” he said.
Buckie believes the final will be SA taking on Argentina.
“I believe tournament favourites Australia and England have some difficulties in their squads, and I don’t believe they will reach the semifinals,” he said.
He said he believed in Siya Kolisi’s leadership skills even though he did not think Kolisi was the best flanker.
Speaking about local rugby, Buckie said Hoërskool Kempton Park rugby had a good season as they reached two finals.
“We played in the NWU final and also the league final. We unfortunately did not win.
“We came second in the league but still had a good season overall,” he said.
Hoërskool Kempton Park is busy with Sevens Rugby and will regroup next month and get a squad for next year’s pre-season.
