Rassie Erasmus gives Cheslin Kolbe injury update after 33-16 loss
Cheslin Kolbe will miss South Africa’s second Test against New Zealand after a hamstring and ankle injury in the 33-16 defeat.
The Springboks’ 33-16 defeat by the All Blacks has left Cheslin Kolbe out of the second Test in Cape Town. Coach Rassie Erasmus said the winger’s injury is more serious than first believed.
Kolbe initially appeared to be dealing with cramp after the Ellis Park match. Further assessment has instead identified problems involving his hamstring and ankle, ruling him out of the Springboks’ match 23 for Saturday’s Test.
Erasmus has not entirely closed the door on Kolbe returning before the game. A late adjustment remains possible if the Stormers player makes a strong recovery, although the coach indicated that a change to the selected team is not currently expected.
South Africa will also be without Canan Moodie and Grant Williams. Moodie sustained a hamstring problem in the first Test, while Williams suffered an ankle injury.
The absences leave the Springboks managing several changes after the defeat at Ellis Park, with Kolbe’s status the main concern raised by Erasmus. His possible late return depends on how the injury responds before the teams meet again in Cape Town.
Pieter-Steph du Toit has been appointed captain for the fifth time this season. The match is also set to be his 100th Test, adding a personal milestone to a second meeting with New Zealand after the Springboks’ 17-point loss in the opening game.
Source: SA Rugby magazine
