Few Rugby shows worldwide match the popularity of the South African panel show ‘Final Whistle’.
Talking all things Springbok rugby whilst covering the goings on of the sport in other nations, the show offers expert analysis on the state of the game.
Hosted by former Springbok tourist turned experienced broadcaster Owen Nkumane, the show utilises the expertise of former players and coaches.
Such experts include former Springbok assistant coach Swys de Bruin, former Springbok backrow Hanyani Shimange and former Springbok sevens captain Jonathan Mokuena.
The dynamic four were tasked this week with debating the one key area of concern for the Springboks heading into the World Cup.
With regular goal kicker Handre Pollard not named in the World Cup squad due to injury, the Boks have seen a rather steep decline in consistency in this area.
Currently in possession of the jersey is Stormers pivot Manie Libbok, who has been a revelation in general play, sparking a new look Bok attack.
Yet for all of his good, the one area of concern for the 26-year-old has been his rather erratic efforts from the kicking tee.
Landing five from nine in the Boks’ recent 52 – 16 romp over Wales in Cardiff, Libbok’s misses were negated due to the sheer dominance of the team.
Despite this, keen-eyed Bok fans and experts have warned that this inconsistency could come back to bite them in tighter fixtures come the World Cup.
Offering several solutions, namely bringing into camp an expert kicking coach, the panel debated both Libbok’s and the wider Springbok squad’s kicking.
Let us know your thoughts on the panel’s points in the comments section.
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