Springboks opts for 7 forwards on the bench as they name strong squad to face Ireland in RWC thriller

The Springboks have taken a different approach towards their upcoming 2023 Rugby World Cup clash against world number 1 Ireland this weekend after naming 7 forwards and only 1 backline on the bench in their 23-match day squad.

Head coach Jacques Nienaber has also named a formidable starting XV for this crunch match.

Steven Kitshoff, Bongi Mbonambi and Frans Malherbe will start in the front rows, Eben Etzebeth and Franco Mostert will start at locks with captain Siya Kolisi, Pieter-Steph Du Toit and Jasper Wiese completing the starting back rows.

Faf De Klerk and impressive Manie Libbok will start at half-back and flyhalf respectively, with Cheslin Kolbe and Kurt-Lee Arendse starting on the wings.

Damian De Allende and Jesse Kriel will pair up in the centres with Damien Williamse at fullback.

The bench also has a lot of firepower with Deon Fourie, Ox Nche, Trevor Nyakane, Jean Kleyn, RG Synman, Marco Van Staden and Kwagga Smith covering the forward while Cobus Reinach will be the only backline replacement.

The Springboks will take on Ireland at 7am this Sunday in Paris.

Meanwhile, Italy will play Uruguay at 3.45am on Thursday in the first match of round 3 of the RWC pool matches.

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