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Springbok flyhalf Manie Libbok says he’s excited to return to No. 10, while Willie le Roux is set for his 100th cap when South Africa face Italy in Gqeberha on Saturday.
Libbok will be making his first official Test appearance of the season, having featured off the bench in the recent non-cap match against the Barbarians at Cape Town Stadium.
"I'm obviously very excited to play with Grant Williams. It's going to be our third test match together, so I'm really looking forward to it," said Libbok.
With Handré Pollard and rising talent Sacha Feinberg-Mngomezulu also in the mix for the coveted Springbok No 10 jersey, Saturday’s Test offers Libbok a crucial chance to stake his claim.
Despite the pressure, the 26-year-old emphasizes the healthy competition among all the flyhalves, saying that it pushes everyone to raise their game and to stay sharp.
"Healthy competition is very beneficial for the team, and it pushes all of us who are competing for the jersey. In that way, we grow as players and as a unified team."
Veteran fullback Willie le Roux will earn his 100th Test cap on Saturday, becoming only the eighth player in Springbok history to reach the milestone. Libbok says it’s an honour to share the moment with Le Roux, describing him as a true servant of South African rugby and a leader within the squad.
"Willie is an incredible human being and rugby player. When I first entered the Springbok camp, Willie was always lending his help. I feel privileged to share the field with him this weekend."
Le Roux follows in the footsteps of other centurions like Eben Etzebeth, Victor Matfield, Bryan Habana, Tendai Mtawarira, John Smit, Jean de Villiers, and Percy Montgomery.
