Rassie Erasmus confirmed Eben Etzebeth’s injury woes will rule the Springbok enforcer out until 8 August against Argentina, yet there is positive news on the likes of Siya Kolisi.
Etzebeth picked up a head knock in training ahead of last week’s Nations Championship win over England. His troubled concussion record means the Boks won’t rush him back for Saturday’s clash against Scotland at Loftus or next week’s Test with Wales in Durban.
“Eben needs some proper time off because of concussion, and he has a history of concussion, so I don’t think Eben will play in these incoming matches,” Erasmus said on Monday during a team announcement press conference.
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The double World Cup-winning lock missed extended periods of the Vodacom URC season with the Sharks and hasn’t featured in a full Test since November, when he was sent off and later suspended for 12 weeks following an incident against Wales.
“We are targeting Argentina for Eben’s return. The same goes for ‘Sous’ [Franco Mostert],” Erasmus added.
The Bok boss has named a new-look side to tackle the Scots, ahead of the Rugby’s Greatest Rivalry series against the All Blacks in August and September.
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Kolisi (hamstring) is expected back next week, with Lood de Jager (hip), Ethan Hooker (shoulder), Ox Nché (knee), Sacha Feinberg-Mngomezulu (ankle) and Morné van den Berg (bicep) all progressing well in their respective recoveries.
“Lood might be ready next week for the Wales game in Durban, he is closer than the others. Ethan could be available,” said Erasmus.
“Ox, Sacha, Krappie, all of them will be ready about three weeks before New Zealand. Siya next week.”
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Photo: Johan Orton/Gallo Images
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Rassie Erasmus confirmed Eben Etzebeth’s injury woes will rule the Springbok enforcer out until 8 August against Argentina, yet there is positive news on the likes of Siya Kolisi.
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