Springbok captain Siya Kolisi has suffered another injury setback, raising concerns over his availability as South Africa turns its attention to a highly anticipated Test series against New Zealand.
Kolisi picked up the injury during the Springboks’ 17-10 victory over Argentina in Buenos Aires on Saturday, August 8.
The setback comes shortly after the experienced flanker returned from a hamstring injury that had already ruled him out of several matches.
Kolisi’s latest injury is therefore an unwelcome development for the Springboks, who are preparing for a major home series against the All Blacks later this month.
All Blacks arrive in South Africa
New Zealand are already in South Africa as part of their eight-match tour, and they have made an impressive start.
The All Blacks defeated the Stormers 38-21 in Cape Town, before producing an even more dominant performance against the Sharks, winning 54-0 in Durban.
The All Blacks will face the Bulls in Pretoria on Saturday, August 15, in their next tour match.
Their preparations will then lead into the eagerly anticipated Test against the Springboks.
Springboks vs All Blacks
The first Test between South Africa and New Zealand will take place at Ellis Park Stadium in Johannesburg on Saturday, August 22.
The fixture is expected to attract huge attention as the two traditional rivals renew one of rugby’s biggest international rivalries.
The Springboks will be hoping to build on their victory over Argentina, while New Zealand will arrive with confidence after their emphatic wins over the Stormers and Sharks.
For South Africa, however, the condition of Kolisi will be one of the major talking points in the build-up to the Test.
Fourie makes Springbok return
Another major development in the Springbok camp is the return of veteran forward Deon Fourie.
Fourie has returned to the Springbok setup three years after his last Test appearance and following a serious ACL injury that threatened to end his career.
His return provides the Springboks with valuable experience as they prepare for a demanding period of international rugby.
Upcoming All Blacks matches in South Africa
The All Blacks’ remaining tour schedule includes:
August 15: Bulls vs All Blacks — Pretoria
August 22: Springboks vs All Blacks — Ellis Park, Johannesburg
With Kolisi’s latest injury now added to the Springboks’ concerns, all eyes will be on the captain’s recovery and whether he will be fit to lead South Africa against their biggest rivals.
For the Springboks, the upcoming weeks will be about maintaining their winning momentum while managing injuries ahead of what promises to be a physically demanding battle against the All Blacks.