Erasmus Confirms Major Springbok Injury Blow After Cape Town Triumph
The Springboks suffered an injury blow following their 33-26 victory over the All Blacks in Cape Town, with Damian Willemse ruled out of next weekend’s third Test.
Willemse was forced from the field shortly before half-time after appearing to pick up a hamstring injury. The versatile back was replaced by Manie Libbok for the second half as the Springboks held on to level the four-Test Rugby’s Greatest Rivalry series at 1-1.
Springbok head coach Rassie Erasmus confirmed after the match that Willemse will not be available for next Saturday’s clash at FNB Stadium in Johannesburg.
“Damian Willemse? He injured his hamstring; he’s out for next week,” Erasmus confirmed.
The injury is a setback for the Springboks, with Willemse having established himself as an important part of Erasmus’ backline. The 28-year-old offers South Africa considerable versatility, having featured at fullback, flyhalf and centre during his international career.
Willemse’s absence will force Erasmus into another selection decision ahead of the crucial third Test, with the series finely poised after South Africa bounced back from their 33-16 defeat at Ellis Park.
The Springboks will return to Johannesburg with momentum on their side, but potentially without one of their key backline players as they look to take a 2-1 lead in the series.
