Manie Libbok expects Saturday's Nations Championship opener against England at Ellis Park to be a bruising affair, warning that the tourists will arrive in Johannesburg well-organised and intent on making a statement.
"It's always a tough test against England – looking back, there have never been easy games against them," said Libbok. "They're coming here this weekend with quality individuals, a quality team, and over and above that, they are well organised and well-coached, so it's going to be a tough Test match. That said, we've had a really good week of preparation and trained well, so we believe we are ready, but they're going to come hard at us."
Libbok flagged England flyhalf Fin Smith as a genuine threat, describing him as creative, a strong ball-carrier, and a composed game-manager. "I'm expecting an awesome challenge against him, and I'm looking forward to it," he said.
At fullback, Damian Willemse will earn his 50th Test cap on Saturday, and Libbok drew on the depth of their partnership. The two played age-group rugby together and shared nearly four seasons at the Stormers, and Libbok says their on-field understanding requires little verbal communication.
Libbok is currently based in Japan with the Kintetsu Liners, where former Wallaby Quade Cooper serves as attack coach. He credits the move with giving him fresh stimulus — both in lifestyle and playing style — and has found Cooper's influence particularly valuable given how closely their playing profiles align. "I know what type of player Quade was, and he played quite similarly to me, so I've learned a lot from him," Libbok said.
The Springboks run through their captain's run on Friday before the 17h40 kickoff on Saturday, live on SuperSport.