Springbok winger Cheslin Kolbe has been polishing his kicking skills as part of his preparation for Saturday’s Rugby Championship match against Argentina in Nelspruit. Flyhalf Manie Libbok will start as the Boks’ primary place-kicker on the day, while they will also have the experienced Handre Pollard on the bench. But if called on to do so, Kolbe says he will be ready.

“I’ve been training and working on it throughout the season and obviously getting tips and advice from guys like Manie, Handré, and coach Tony as well, which definitely helps me and gives me that bit of confidence,” he said.

Kolbe said he feels comfortable kicking for poles, should he be asked to do so. “You never know what can happen on the day; if it does happen, I am confident and ready.”

??? Rassie on Manie’s kicking: “It’s not just up to him to find solutions for his goal-kicking, it is something we have to do as a team, and we are working on a plan.” #RSAvARG

Cheslin Kolbe, Jaden Hendrikse and Manie Libbok all practicing their kicking. pic.twitter.com/l2QKWICrdI

— Jared Wright (@jaredwright17) September 24, 2024

Kolbe is not only well-known for chasing down penalty kicks and tearing down the field to score tries but he is often seen getting the ball out of scrums and has even thrown the ball in at line-outs earlier this year. He said his career in 7’s was good preparation for taking on new challenges on the rugby field.

“As long as I am confident and comfortable to do a job and it is positive for the team, I am happy to do so. I try to work on my skills each and every week during training.  I’m just happy to help and assist where I can.”

Saturday’s match in Nelspruit kicks off at 17:00. New Zealand referee Ben O’Keeffe will take charge of matters on the field on Saturday and will be assisted by James Doleman, Craig Evans, and Glenn Newman as television match official.

OFM Sport/Ilse Smalberger cg/mvh