Lions backline coach Ricardo Loubscher is throwing his weight behind Quan Horn as a potential goal-kicker for the Springboks, even as Horn preps for a surprising flyhalf role against the Barbarians this Saturday in Gqeberha. This shift comes just after Horn's first Test cap as a substitute against Portugal in 2024. While Cheslin Kolbe holds the reins as the primary kicker, Horn is warming up in the bullpen, ready to step up if needed.
Despite being a fresh face in his role, Horn has been silently honing his goal-kicking prowess under the tutelage of Morné Steyn, a former Springbok flyhalf and current Lions kicking coach. “
What few people know is that Quan works very hard on his kicking for posts,”
Loubscher revealed. He further emphasized the rigorous training Horn has put in, particularly towards the end of the season, preparing him for moments just like this.The decision to place Horn at No 10 was part of a strategic move by Springbok coach Rassie Erasmus, aiming to tap into the fullback's adaptable skill set. Loubscher expressed his enthusiasm about the selection: “
When I saw the team list, I was immediately excited,”
he said. He praised Horn’s analytical approach to the game and his perfect temperament for high-stakes play, qualities that make him a standout candidate for such a critical position.Erasmus’s choice to test Horn in a new position highlights a broader strategy of flexibility and experimentation within the team, a sentiment echoed by rugby pundit Nick Mallett who described Horn’s selection as a ‘left-field’ but potentially game-changing move.
This weekend’s match will not only be a test of Horn’s ability to adapt but also an opportunity to prove his mettle as a potential key player in the Springboks' arsenal. With the world watching, Quan Horn is set to showcase the depth of his skills, both as a flyhalf and a goal-kicker, under the bright lights of international rugby.