The Springboks will bank on scrumhalf Faf de Klerk to help them execute their game plan better against France in Paris on Saturday.
De Klerk was unavailable in South Africa’s 12-11 defeat to England last weekend as the Bokke failed to convert a number of try-scoring opportunities.
But assistant coach Mzwandile Stick believes his experience will help the team as they look to return to winning ways.
Of De Klerk’s return, Stick tells reporters in Paris: “His experience and what he brings to the team is vital. He knows European conditions and I think he will add a lot of value to the team if he gets an opportunity to play this weekend.”
Backline coach Mzwandile Stick. Photo: CHRIS RICCO/BACKPAGEPIX
Stick is adamant that the Springboks will not change their approach to the game in the encounter and adds: “We created opportunities against England and as coaches, we can be positive about that.
“The disappointing thing is that we didn’t convert them into points. We did that in the games against the All Blacks earlier this year. I don’t think we are going to change much in our plan, though. If you can create 20 scoring opportunities against England at Twickenham, you are doing something right.
“It’s always going to be difficult playing France in Paris. They’ve got physical players in the pack and midfield and it’s going to be tough.”