Butch James explains why Handré Pollard’s ice-cool boot still offers vital insurance for crunch knockout fixtures.

Image: AFP

World Cup-winning flyhalf Butch James believes Handré Pollard still has a massive role to play for the Springboks heading into next year’s Rugby World Cup in Australia, despite identifying Sacha Feinberg-Mngomezulu as his preferred starting No 10.

Pollard was instrumental in guiding South Africa to back-to-back Webb Ellis Cup triumphs in 2019 and 2023, establishing himself as one of the most reliable big-match players in modern rugby history.

But over the last few years, Pollard has played a bit-part role in the Springboks’ set-up following the emergence of Feinberg-Mngomezulu, who has brought a new attacking edge and individual brilliance to South Africa’s back play.

Feinberg-Mngomezulu is a monster with ball in hand, with speed, anticipation, and power making him a nightmare to defend against. But at 24, he is still very much learning his trade, especially when it comes to game management and his goalkicking. However, there can be no doubt that he is a generational talent.

While new attacking dimensions have been introduced into Rassie Erasmus’s squad through assistant coach Tony Brown, James insists that Pollard’s ice-cool temperament and wealth of experience make him a non-negotiable inclusion in the World Cup setup.

Pollard stepped up in the last two World Cup semi-finals and finals to kick the Springboks to victory. For James, having that insurance policy in the squad is a no-brainer.

"Yeah, I think Handré Pollard does have a role to play at the World Cup in Australia next year," James told 10bet.

"He's one of, if not the best flyhalf South Africa’s ever had and produced. So, you've got to keep him around. I think we've seen that he can still come on and do the job as well.

"Why wouldn't you want to keep him around? He's as cool as anything and brings so much experience and knowledge to the team."

Crucially, James pointed out that Pollard’s physical attributes remain sharp despite the heavy mileage on his body over a decade at the highest level.

"Physically, he still seems to be running around like a young Handré. He’s still got that ability," James noted.

However, when pressed on who should wear the Springbok No 10 jersey as the Boks evolve their playing style, the 2007 World Cup winner nailed his colours to the mast.

"My first choice would be Sacha Feinberg-Mngomezulu. Sacha would be my first choice number 10," James revealed.

"If Sacha had got injured, I would start with Handré, backing him up on the bench with all his experience. Then as third choice, I would have Manie Libbok. They’re all outstanding options for the jersey."

Feinberg-Mngomezulu’s meteoric rise into the Springbok setup has captured the imagination of South African rugby supporters, but it has also brought immense expectation.

Critics and fans alike often scrutinise the young playmaker on a game-by-game basis, expecting game-changing brilliance every time he takes the field.

James acknowledged the weight of expectation on the Stormers prodigy, noting that young players in high-profile positions often feel compelled to force the play rather than letting the game come to them.

"Yeah, I think sometimes he probably does put himself under a bit more pressure than he needs to," James explained.

"But, unfortunately, when you’re on top, that's when the pressure comes. And I think every player wants to be there, so they don't mind the pressure—it’s just part of the job of playing elite-level rugby."

Reflecting on Feinberg-Mngomezulu’s immediate impact in the green and gold, James urged supporters to allow the youngster room to grow and accept that dips in form are a natural part of a player’s development.

"I think he had such a great debut season for the Springboks, that's why that pressure's on, and obviously that's why we all want him to play every game like that first season," James said.

"So it's tough for him because we know what he can produce. He's a great player, and he's human as well. He's going to have a poor game every now and then, but he's a wonderful rugby player."

Regarding Manie Libbok, whose electric cameos off the bench against the All Blacks showcased his unique playmaking abilities, James sees him as an essential cog in the Springbok depth chart, even if he currently sits third in the pecking order.

"I think he will definitely get a few more starts in the No 10 jersey, but I think he's just behind Sacha," James added.

"I think it also depends on who you're playing and what the game is. You could even have him on the bench. But if it's a big deciding game and you may need the points, I would put Handré in front of him."

With three world-class options offering vastly different skill sets, South Africa’s flyhalf depth remains the envy of world rugby as the countdown to Australia continues.