Common sense prevails as Springboks pick Mbonambi
There was simply no better time for Allister Coetzee to give the Stormers hooker his chance than against Italy this weekend.
Bongi Mbonambi finally gets a start for the Springboks. / AFP PHOTO / PHILIPPE LOPEZ
Springbok coach Allister Coetzee made a prudent decision on Thursday in handing Bongi Mbonambi his first start in the Green-and-Gold against Italy in Padua on Saturday.
The reliable Stormers hooker had understandably been playing second fiddle all season to Malcolm Marx, who’s emerged as potentially world-class No 2.
However, with Marx battling a soft tissue injury to his shoulder, calls had been mounting for Coetzee to give the Lions talisman a break.
It’s a win-win situation.
The Boks have been relying far too heavily on Marx in 2017 and Mbonambi’s promotion means some much-needed depth will be explored.
Of course one match won’t mean competition in the position suddenly becomes big but at least it’s a start.
Also, it gives Marx time to recover for next week’s meeting with Wales, where South Africa won’t have some of their bigger names available.
“We decided not to risk Malcolm, which means Bongi will get a well-deserved first start in the No 2 jersey,” said Coetzee.
“Bongi has worked hard and I have no doubt he will grab this opportunity with both hands, as will Chiliboy, should he get a run.”
Mbonambi isn’t as explosive as Marx but he’s a good scrummer, solid defender and reliable as thrower.
With team management opting for continuity, it’s notable that Warrick Gelant has been included on the bench.
The 22-year-old Bulls fullback had an outstanding Currie Cup and is regarded as one of the most exciting runners in local rugby.
Should he make an appearance off the bench, he’ll provide definite X-factor in a backline that is solid but hardly spectacular.
“Warrick is in good form and his work-rate during training has been impressive. I know he will add value and I am very excited for the possibility of seeing him in action.”
Springboks: Andries Coetzee, Dillyn Leyds, Jesse Kriel, Francois Venter, Courtnall Skosan, Handre Pollard, Ross Cronje, Duane Vermeulen, Pieter-Steph du Toit, Francois Louw, Lood de Jager, Eben Etzebeth (c), Wilco Louw, Bongi Mbonambi, Beast Mtawarira. Bench: Chiliboy Ralepelle, Steven Kitshoff, Trevor Nyakane, Franco Mostert, Dan du Preez, Rudy Paige, Elton Jantjies, Warrick Gelant.
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