Springboks suffer triple injury blow after 33-16 first-Test loss

The Springboks’ 33-16 defeat in the first Test has been followed by a major injury concern ahead of the second match. Cheslin Kolbe is doubtful for Saturday’s fixture in Cape Town after being hurt during the Ellis Park loss.

Kolbe was initially thought to have suffered little more than cramp after the match. Further assessment showed that the Stormers back had a more serious problem, involving his ankle as well as the hamstring area.

Springboks coach Rassie Erasmus has placed Kolbe’s availability in doubt but has not completely ruled out his involvement. The winger was left out of the 23-man squad named for the second Test, although a late alteration remains possible if he makes a strong recovery.

The wider injury list also includes loose forward Ben-Jason Dixon, scrumhalf Grant Williams and utility back Canan Moodie. Williams sustained an ankle injury during the first Test, while Moodie picked up a hamstring problem in the same match.

Dixon is dealing with concussion symptoms that began last week. His condition adds another selection issue for Erasmus as South Africa attempt to respond to the 33-16 result in the Rugby’s Greatest Rivalry series.

Kolbe’s absence would remove one of the squad’s most dangerous attacking options, while the other injuries affect the loose-forward, scrumhalf and utility-back positions. Erasmus must therefore assess several changes before the second Test in Cape Town.