Libbok has Stormers kicking guru on video call during RWC: 'Gareth's had a massive influence on him'

Springbok flyhalf Manie Libbok is in regular contact his franchise kicking coach, Gareth Wright, during the ongoing Rugby World Cup in France.

Libbok has been in outstanding form for the Springboks, scooping the man-of-the-match accolade in their 18-3 opening Pool B win over Scotland.

One issue, however, has been Libbok's goal-kicking in the green and gold.

There's no kicking coach in the Bok camp at present and Stormers coach John Dobson, speaking on News24's Inside Pass podcast, said Wright could have helped Libbok if he was in France.

"I was one of the guys who said Gareth should be there because they've got a special relationship," Dobson said on Thursday.

"I don't know what the stat is, but I also do get the sense that there is a difference (in his goal-kicking for the Stormers and the Springboks).

"With us, every time there's a really big kick ... and there have been four of them ... one of them being against Ulster in the semi-final of the first (URC) season, he gets them over.

"Rassie (Erasmus) and Co said you can't have all these independent coaches there and I understand that argument. But I think, given the level of flashpoint that it is in the World Cup, maybe there was a case for it.

"I don't coach Manie. I backed him but I'm not responsible for his [kicking]. But Gareth has had a massive influence on him and, I think, whatever it takes to make him feel better in that environment, I would have considered it."

Dobson, though, confirmed that there is contact between Libbok and Wright during the tournament.

"Yes, that's encouraged by management and that's completely ongoing. They're video calling each other."

After an injury to hooker Malcolm Marx, the Springboks surprised by calling up flyhalf Handre Pollard instead of