Bomb squad still explosive despite five-three bench split

IN THE SPOTLIGHT: The Springboks’ famous ‘Bomb squad’ has not lost its assertiveness despite a five-three bench split, according to prop Vincent Koch.

Springbok head coach Jacques Nienaber has discarded the preferred six-two bench split between forwards and backs for Saturday’s Rugby Championship clash against Australia in Adelaide.

The Springboks’ bomb squad came under scrutiny in the last few weeks following the 23-35 defeat to the All Blacks in Round Two.

The World Champions found themselves in a conundrum when wing Jesse Kriel left the field in the opening minutes and the backline had to be reshuffled – leaving a lot of players having to play out of position.

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In the wake of the defeat, the coach admitted having two backline players on the bench was a big risk and now he has opted to select three backline players on the bench as the team look to end their drought down under.

Nienaber brought in flyhalf Elton Jantjies as an extra replacement and also swapped Willie le Roux for Frans Steyn. Jaden Hendrikse is the other backline player on the bench.

Jasper Wiese has not been named in the matchday squad.

A move like this may weaken the impact of the Bomb Squad, especially regarding the forward battle in the closing stages.

However, Koch, who has been named on the bench, believed it will not be a big issue.

“I don’t think it will have a massive impact, each one in the bomb squad have a specific role,” Koch told reporters when asked about the bench split.

“Whether it is a six-two or five-three bench split, we all know what to do when we get on the field.

“I don’t think the dynamic will change much, once we get a chance to get on the pitch we just have to make sure we keep the intensity where the starters left off.”

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Koch revealed the Wallabies pack will pose a new challenge for the Springboks, who were under pressure during their last outing against the All Blacks.

“Australia has a really good pack.

“They have a good front row on the bench as well, so of course, it is going to be a challenge for us.

“But our focus is mainly on ourselves and how we can be better.

“It is going to be a good challenge.”

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