The Rugby Union World Cup Final for 2023 is set to be an epic showdown as the mighty All Blacks face off against the formidable Springboks. The grand finale will take place at the iconic Stade de France in Paris, promising an unforgettable match for rugby enthusiasts worldwide.
Team Lineups
All Blacks Lineup
The All Blacks, led by their captain Sam Cane, have announced a formidable starting XV for the World Cup final:
- Backs: Beauden Barrett, Will Jordan, Rieko Ioane, Jordie Barrett, Mark Telea, Richie Mo’unga, Aaron Smith
- Forwards: Ardie Savea, Sam Cane, Shannon Frizell, Scott Barrett, Brodie Retallick, Tyrel Lomax, Codie Taylor, Ethan de Groot
- Reserves: Samisoni Taukei’aho, Tamaiti Williams, Nepo Laulala, Sam Whitelock, Dalton Papalii, Fin Christie, Damian McKenzie, Anton Lienert-Brown
In a tactical move, Coach Ian Foster has brought Brodie Retallick back into the lock position, while adding power to the front row with Samisoni Taukei’aho and Nepo Laulala on the bench. This adjustment anticipates the challenge that the Springboks’ renowned “Bomb Squad” poses in the second half of the final.
Taukei’aho earned the nod ahead of departing veteran Dane Coles, while Laulala steps in for Fletcher Newell, who has been the impact tighthead during the knockout rounds.
Springboks Lineup
The Springboks, led by their captain Siya Kolisi, have also named a formidable squad for the final:
- Backs: Damian Willemse, Kurt-Lee Arendse, Jesse Kriel, Damian de Allende, Cheslin Kolbe, Handre Pollard, Faf de Klerk
- Forwards: Duane Vermeulen, Pieter-Steph Du Toit, Franco Mostert, Eben Etzebeth, Frans Malherbe, Mbongeni Mbonambi, Steven Kitshoff
- Reserves: Deon Fourie, Ox Nche, Trevor Nyakane, Jean Kleyn, RG Snyman, Kwagga Smith, Jasper Wiese, Willie Le Roux
Notably, Faf de Klerk and Handre Pollard have been named at halfback and first five-eighth. This dynamic duo has started together 25 times, and this will be their eighth encounter against the All Blacks. They replace Cobus Reinach and Manie Libbok, who have been left out of the squad altogether.
The Bench Strategy
Both teams have meticulously designed their bench units to ensure they have the right mix of impact players when the game intensifies. The Springboks, in particular, are focusing on a 7-1 forwards-backs split, aiming to take on the All Blacks in the physical battle upfront, just as they did in their convincing 35-7 win in London in late August.
Off-Field Controversy
In the lead-up to the final, there has been controversy off the field. Referee Ben O’Keeffe’s handling of an alleged incident involving Springboks hooker Bongi Mbonambi has sparked outrage. Tom Curry, an England player, complained that he had been abused by Mbonambi during a previous match. O’Keeffe’s response, “Nothing, please,” has drawn criticism, as no action was taken during the match, and the alleged slur was not clearly audible on the match coverage.
Furthermore, World Rugby’s handling of the situation has come under scrutiny. They did not even interview Tom Curry or the referee over these incidents. The decision not to present the evidence before an independent disciplinary panel has denied the process the opportunity to hear Tom Curry’s voice and independently assess his account. Many have expressed their dissatisfaction with this approach.
The Final Prediction
As the rugby world eagerly awaits this titanic clash, it’s anyone’s guess who will come out on top. With Wayne Barnes as the referee and both teams at their best, it promises to be an intense battle. Many predict a close contest, and while some are leaning towards the All Blacks for victory, nothing is certain in the world of rugby.
As we gear up for this monumental event, we also anticipate the game for 3rd and 4th place, where England is expected to face Argentina in what promises to be another tightly contested match. Rugby fans worldwide are in for an absolute treat as the 2023 Rugby World Cup reaches its thrilling conclusion.
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