Springboks face another major injury setback ahead of end-of-year tour, according to Rugby365.com.
Another veteran prop absent
The Springboks face another significant injury setback as they prepare for their end-of-year tour. Veteran tighthead prop Frans Malherbe, a cornerstone of their World Cup-winning squad, did not join the team for the training camp in Jersey. This camp represents the final chance for the Boks to refine their strategies and build cohesion before taking on formidable opponents like Scotland, England, and Wales. Missing Malherbe not only weakens their front row but also places additional pressure on the remaining players to step up in his absence.
Injury woes strike again: Malherbe, Willemse, and Dixon affected
Malherbe was one of three Springboks injured during the Stormers’ tough 28-17 defeat against the Glasgow Warriors. Alongside him, teammates Ben-Jason Dixon and Damian Willemse also sustained injuries.
Willemse’s injury occurred while he was scoring a try, leading to a groin issue that officially ruled him out on Sunday. The Bulls’ rising star, Cameron Hanekom, has stepped in as his replacement.
Dixon, who did not make the tour selection, faced a knee injury and is currently undergoing scans to assess its severity.
In a particularly tough blow for Willemse, who recently returned from finger surgery that kept him sidelined during the mid-year and Rugby Championship Tests, the groin injury could keep him off the field for three to four months. This setback pushes his expected return to February, significantly impacting the team’s depth.
Springboks’ tighthead prop dilemma
With Malherbe’s status still uncertain—no official announcement has clarified his situation—the Springboks find themselves in a tight spot. The team’s media release continues to list him as part of the touring squad. This leaves Vincent Koch and Wilco Louw as the only specialist tighthead props, while Thomas du Toit offers versatility by being able to play on both sides of the scrum.
As the Springboks brace for their upcoming matches against formidable opponents, the team must quickly adapt to these injury challenges. Fans will be watching closely to see how the coaching staff navigates this critical phase leading into the end-of-year tour.
Stay tuned with The South African as Springboks face another major injury setback.
Let us know your thoughts by clicking on the comment tab below this article. Or by emailing info@thesouthafrican.com or sending a WhatsApp to 060 011 0211. You can also follow @TheSAnews on X and The South African on Facebook.
