Sport | Boks’ 7/1 move harnesses ‘best possible 23’ to counter All Blacks, says Stick

Springbok assistant coach Mzwandile Stick.

• Springbok assistant coach Mzwandile Stick said the decision to opt for a seven-one bench split was informed by their need to pick their best possible team for Saturday’s Rugby World Cup final.
• The Springboks look to harness the full might of their forward strength to counter New Zealand’s tempo, with only one backline player, Willie le Roux, in reserve.
• Stick said they have contingencies in place for the final from a substitute’s perspective.
• For more, please visit News24’s Rugby World Cup Zone.

PARIS. – Springbok assistant coach Mzwandile Stick said that deciding on the outrageous seven-one bench split for Saturday’s Rugby World Cup final against New Zealand was informed by needing to pick their best available 23 to suit their strengths.

Stick, who deftly, and with a smile, avoided a question regarding the off-field racial storm involving Bongi Mbonambi, said their selection needed to challenge what the All Blacks will bring to the plate.

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The Boks were also greeted with sunshine and better weather for their captain’s run at the Stade des Fauvettes in Domont, north of Pari