Head coach Alister Coetzee has unveiled his lineup for the upcoming showdown against New Zealand at Stadium de Toulouse on Friday. The Namibian team will see three notable changes to the starting XV, with prop Jason Benade, flanker Prince Gaoseb, and center Le Roux Malan earning their spots in the roster.
Here’s the complete lineup:
- Jason Benade
- Torsten van Jaarsveld
- Johan Coetzee
- Johan Retief
- Tjiuee Uanivi
- Wian Conradie
- Prince Gaoseb
- Richard Hardwick
- Damian Stevens
- Tiaan Swanepoel
- Divan Rossouw
- Le Roux Malan
- Johan Deysel (c)
- Gerswin Mouton
- Cliven Loubser
Substitutes:
- Louis van der Westhuizen
- Desiderius Sethie
- Haitembu Shifuka
- PJ Van Lill
- Adriaan Booysen
- Max Katjijeko
- Jacques Theron
- JC Greyling
Coach Allister Coetzee has opted for just three changes to the starting lineup compared to their previous match against Italy. Notably, Jason Benade and Prince Gaoseb have been called up to bolster the forward pack, while Le Roux Malan gets the nod in the backline.
Eight players from Namibia’s Rugby World Cup 2019 squad have retained their positions in the match-day team, showcasing the team’s continuity and experience. These stalwarts include Johan Coetzee, Torsten van Jaarsveld, Tjiuee Uanivi, Johan Retief, Prince Gaoseb, Damian Stevens, JC Greyling, and captain Johan Deysel.
Tiaan Swanepoel, a pivotal figure in Namibia’s attack during the Italy game, contributed significantly with two linebreak assists and one try assist. His impressive 17 carries for 103 meters, including 70 meters gained, underscore his impact on the field, particularly with the joint-most carries from the base of the ruck (8).
Richard Hardwick was another standout player in the Italy match, demonstrating his prowess on attack by beating the most defenders (8) while making the second-most carries (16) for Namibia.
It’s worth noting that Torsten van Jaarsveld is currently plying his trade for Bayonne in the Top 14, making him one of three players in this match-day squad who represent clubs in France. PJ Van Lill features for Capbreton Hossegor Rugby, while Tjiuee Uanivi dons the jersey of US Montauban.
Le Roux Malan, who earned his first start of the season after a 22-minute cameo off the bench against Italy, is a promising addition to the lineup. Having made his test debut last year against Spain in Madrid, he once again partners with captain Johan Deysel in the centers, showcasing the team’s faith in their burgeoning talent.
