Vincent Koch backs Bomb Squad to fire against Australia

Springbok prop Vincent Koch has dismissed suggestions that the Springboks' famed 'Bomb Squad' will be less explosive with the decision to revert to a 5-3 split on the bench.

After selecting six forwards and two backs in every test match this year, Jacques Nienaber has selected five forwards and three backs to face Australia in round three of the Rugby Championship.

In both tests against the All Blacks, South Africa suffered injuries early on in the backline with the same happening in the third test against Wales.

Nienaber acknowledged that selecting two backs on the bench was a risk and has responded for the first test against Australia with Jaden Hendrikse, Elton Jantjies and Frans Steyn selected on the bench with loose forward Jasper Wiese missing out.

Koch believes that having one less forward on the bench will not have a 'massive impact'.

“I don’t think it will have a massive impact, each one in the bomb squad have a specific role,” Koch said.

“Whether it is a six-two or five-three bench split, we all know what to do when we get on the field.

“I don’t think the dynamic will change much, once we get a chance to get on the pitch we just have to make sure we keep the intensity where the starters left off.”

Springbok record against the Wallabies in Australia:

Played 41

Won 12

Lost 27

Drawn 2

Points for: 685

Points against: 900

Tries scored 80

Tries conceded 91

Highest score 38-12 in Brisbane (2013)

Biggest win 26 points in Brisbane (2013)

Win % 29%.

Commenting on the Wallabies' pack, Koch said:

“Australia has a really good pack. They have a good front row on the bench as well, so of course, it is going to be a challenge for us.

“But our focus is mainly on ourselves and how we can be better. It is going to be a good challenge.”