Johannesburg – CPR and defibrillation have been done, and Gianni Lombard’s form appears to have been revived.
Obviously, the Lions flyhalf has a long way to go before his career is fully revived, but in his two United Rugby Championship (URC) starts so far this season, he has displayed newfound vigor. The 24-year-old was vital in steering the Springboks to two outstanding victories on the road, the first against the Ospreys and the most recent against Cardiff.
Lombard was inserted into the starting XV at No. 10 after the Lions’ opening-round loss to the Bulls, and it has only worked in their favor thus far.
Many will argue that Jordan Hendrikse, who started against the Bulls, has a bright future with the Springboks, but he currently lacks the poise and maturity of the more experienced Lombard. Unquestionably, he possesses a portion of the requisite world-weariness to be an exceptional No. 10, but he lacks the street-smarts to properly capitalize on it.
He has naturally amassed a fan base that desires his success, but he may need a few more years as an understudy to reach his full potential.
In contrast, Lombard has confronted difficulty and triumphed over it, gaining a taste of the wider world in the process. At flyhalf, it appears that the Lions will be content to remain with Lombard for the time being, especially with their last tour fixture looming against Edinburgh.
Monday, Lions offensive coach Ricardo Laubscher stated, “Jordan still has a part to play.”
“We feel that the pick of Gianni at number 10 provides us a great deal of momentum and experience in how we want to play the game.” He is the driving force behind the squad, whether offensively or defensively. We are quite pleased with the current momentum.”
It is probable that Hendrikse may play a larger role in the remaining five home games following the Edinburgh match. On the tougher surface of Emirates Airline Park, he should be more sure-footed, but it will be interesting to see an unrestrained Lombard attack.
Thus far, he has not had the chance to unleash his full potential on the wet fields of Wales or the likely rain-soaked DAM Health Stadium this weekend.
In addition, Lombard is forming a significant connection with halfback partner Sanele Nohamba, who has reportedly overcome Morne van den Berg in the competition for the No. 9 jumper. The 23-year-old has added a degree of agitation to the Lions’ match, frightening the opposition and angering their fans.
After the Lions gained a penalty in the second half against Cardiff, an ecstatic Nohamba yelled in delight and was subsequently booed by the hostile crowd. The Welsh commentators appeared to be irritated by Nohamba’s style of play, but the Lions could use a little agitation from their halfback just now.
It forces opposing teams to lose composure, lose their temper, and commit errors. Together with Lombard, they are forming a strong alliance.
“The most important thing for Senele,” added Laubscher, “is to obtain more playing time. He is truly in a great place. He comprehends the game…
We are quite pleased with how our nines and tens are performing at the moment. He will not prioritize selection to the Springboks. The most important thing for him right now is to play well and consistently deliver solid performances.”
Friday night, the Lions meet the Scottish franchise. The start time is 8:35 pm.
@FreemanZAR