Cheslin Kolbe adds goal-kicking threat to Springboks’ attacking arsenal

Cheslin Kolbe’s value to the Springboks is no longer limited to his brilliance on the wing, with the 31-year-old showing he can also provide a reliable kicking option after a flawless display against the All Blacks in Cape Town.

Kolbe scored 23 points in South Africa’s 33-26 victory in the second Test, converting three tries and landing four penalties without missing a kick. His accuracy from the tee proved an important part of the Springboks’ success at the Cape Town Stadium.

The Toulouse back has long been recognised for his extraordinary footwork, speed and aerial ability. His trademark side-stepping has produced countless memorable moments and hundreds of thousands of views on social media, often as defenders are left trailing behind him.

However, goal-kicking has increasingly become another notable part of his game.

Kolbe was given the responsibility of kicking for the posts in the opening Test against the All Blacks at Ellis Park and handled the task confidently. Handre Pollard had been selected at fly-half for the second match in Cape Town and would normally have assumed place-kicking duties.

But Pollard was ruled out through injury, leaving Kolbe to take on the responsibility once again. He responded by delivering a perfect performance and helped the Springboks secure a second successive victory over their rivals.

Speaking after the match, Kolbe said his progress as a goal-kicker had been shaped by his experience in Japan, as well as work with coaches in the Springbok set-up.

“This season in Japan, I had the responsibility of taking over the goal-kicking, and that’s contributed to my style and technique,” Kolbe said.

“I can also give credit to the coaches in Japan, and Tony [Brown] in the Springbok set-up is doing a few things for me so I can get more consistency.

“That’s the same for every rugby player. You always need to bring something new to the team. It’s [about] contributing to the team’s success.”

Kolbe had previously been best known for creating opportunities with the ball in hand, but his kicking has now given South Africa another option while Pollard continues his recovery.

The Springboks may again turn to Kolbe when they face the All Blacks for the third time at FNB Stadium on Saturday. After his 100% record in Cape Town, he has demonstrated that he can provide the composure and precision required when points are at stake.

The third Test in Soweto kicks off at 17:10.