Manie Libbok to start at fly-half for Springboks against All Blacks in Rugby Championship

Erasmus makes one change to starting XV that beat Wallabies last weekend

Pollard out with injury as Boks look to clinch series win

Manie Libbok will start at fly-half for South Africa against New Zealand in the Rugby Championship on Saturday, with Handre Pollard ruled out through injury.

Libbok, who has won two caps for the Springboks, will make his first start at fly-half in the absence of Pollard, who suffered a calf strain in the 24-8 victory over Australia last weekend.

It is the only change to the starting XV that beat the Wallabies in Adelaide, with coach Rassie Erasmus opting for continuity in the rest of the team.

"We're obviously disappointed to lose Handre, but we have full confidence in Manie," said Erasmus.

"He's a talented young player who has been in good form for the Bulls this season, and we're looking forward to seeing what he can do at international level."

Libbok, who can also play at full-back, has been in impressive form for the Bulls in the United Rugby Championship (URC) this season, scoring 105 points in 11 appearances.

He made his Springbok debut off the bench against Wales in July 2021 and started at full-back in the victory over Scotland a week later.

The Springboks will be looking to clinch the Rugby Championship title with victory over the All Blacks in Mbombela.

They currently lead the standings with 14 points, two ahead of New Zealand, and a win would see them retain the title they won in 2019.

The All Blacks have won their last two matches in the Championship, against Argentina and Australia, and will be looking to end the Springboks' winning streak.