Blake wrote: Mon Sep 11, 2023 12:16 pm
I've seen somebody bring up a stat (not sure how accurate it is to be fair) that leading into the 2019 RWC Pollard's kicking percentage for the Boks was under 70% as well. Anybody have an idea where one could find the actual number to validate such a claim?
Even if that is true, I'm still worried about Libbok's kicking. An average of 70% is manageable if it is a consistent 70%. If he consistently landed 5 from 7 in every match we wouldn't be having this conversation. He'd be a mediocre but passable kicker at International level.
The problem is that averages are misleading things. Libbok might be a 68% kicker on paper, but he is wildly inconsistent. He kicks 100% in 7 kicks in one match and then a 2 from 6 in the next. That match where be kicks at 33% just kills you. Does for the Stormers and will for the Boks at some point. You need a 85% kicker for the tight matches. You just do. I don't care what Siya says in the presser. I know he's standing up for a team mate, and showing support, but the margins are so thin at this level you have to be elite at performing the basics, whether it's the designated goal kicker or the hooker throwing in at lineouts. If you have an off day, it can easily cost your team the match.
I've also heard that Pollard kicking Stat bandied around but saw no proof.
Manie is fine. His kicking game will improve over time. Geez. Give him a chance. I've seen other players get chance after chance for years and still not step up. And still there.
It's a technical thing in his runup which has been done to death. TBH , Rassie and Nienaber seem determined to keep Pollard out of the squad. You have to ask yourself the reason why. Pollard is an international class flyhalf. Not some kid who has been promising for years and still has to deliver. So can easily step into the bok squad. Now you ask yourself. 1.What positions can Pollard cover
2. Who's position in the team will he take.
3. Who covers 10.....in the loosest term of it. When Manie is not there...currently.
There's the answer why Pollard is not there.