Springbok flyhalf Manie Libbok is embracing the challenge of facing Ireland’s Johnny Sexton at Stade de France on Saturday when the teams meet in one of the biggest match-ups in the Rugby World Cup thus far between the No. 1 and No. 2 teams in the world.
Libbok, who has established himself as the Bok’s first-choice flyhalf this season, has been a key figure for the team, and while he is well aware of the challenge posed by Ireland’s star flyhalf, he says he is looking forward to the contest.
“Johnny is a great player and he’s done amazing things for Ireland over the years,” said Libbok. “On a personal note, I’m preparing as well as I can, and it’s going to be a nice challenge. We are playing the No. 1 team in the world, so it’s a massive game for us all.”
SA Rugby director of rugby, Rassie Erasmus agreed with Libbok and said that Johnny Sexton makes things happen and is vital for Ireland's success.
"He is vital in my opinion. When I was at Munster, we beat them [Leinster, where Sexton plays] once. Whenever Johnny is in the team a lot of things happen, not just as a player, I think the aura around him and his presence. For a man at 38 to score tries like he did this weekend... As long as he is physically out there, there is no doubt about [his influence].
"The aura he has about him is exceptional, not just for his own team but very intimidating for us as the opposition."
Libbok has been a key figure for the DHL Stormers in the Vodacom United Rugby Championship and has encountered many of the Irish players. However, he said this match would be a completely different challenge in his first Test against the World No 1’s.
“I’ve played against a few of their players in the URC, but this is different, it’s a Test match, and they’ll be at their best, just as we’d like to be,” he said.
Libbok brushed off the varied opinions about his goal-kicking this season and said: “My whole game will be important. Kicking at posts, out of hand and my whole game in general. I’ve been working hard on my basic skills and I’m putting a lot of work into getting everything right.”