Veteran Springboks flyhalf Handre Pollard need to guide the attack against the All Blacks in the second Test in Cape Town
The Springboks haven’t often lost their way in Test matches since the last Rugby World Cup. But, on the odd occasion when they have, it’s not been a pretty sight.
As was evident during their second-half unraveling against the All Blacks at Ellis Park, the Springboks’ system collapsed not from a lack of physical effort, but from a fatal loss of tactical control that stemmed from a variety of factors such as a backline reshuffle, injuries and unforced errors.
With the second Test at DHL Stadium in Cape Town now a non-negotiable must-win, all eyes will turn to flyhalf Handré Pollard to step up, take the reins, and restore order to the Springboks’ play.
The chaotic performance in Johannesburg bore a striking resemblance to last year’s defeat in Auckland. On that occasion, Pollard produced a mixed bag, caught in the crossfire of a game plan that fell apart early on in the match.
