“Frustrating, But Useful!” Etzebeth Opens Up On 12-Match Ban And Injury Nightmare Ahead Of All Blacks Decider
Eben Etzebeth admits his extended spell on the sidelines was frustrating, but believes his time away from rugby also gave him an opportunity to improve his game as the Springboks prepare for the decisive Rugby’s Greatest Rivalry Test against New Zealand in Baltimore.
Etzebeth’s difficult period began in November 2025 when he was sent off against Wales following an incident involving flanker Alex Mann. He was subsequently handed a 12-match suspension for eye-gouging, although the sanction was reduced from an initial 18 matches because of his previous disciplinary record and mitigating factors.
His return was then disrupted by injury. After making his comeback for the Sharks against Connacht in April, Etzebeth suffered a hip injury, while a later concussion setback also interrupted his preparations.
The result was a lengthy period without the regular rugby normally required to reach peak Test-match form.
“Yeah, it was a bit frustrating, obviously, not getting a lot of rugby under my belt,” Etzebeth said.
“It was nice to play my first Test against Argentina again and get a full 80 minutes and, obviously, the last couple of games against New Zealand as well.
“I was in the mix for that England game and then I had to withdraw in the week, but I’m just glad to be back on the park again and playing some rugby,” added Etzebeth.
Despite the frustration, Etzebeth believes his time away also provided an opportunity to work on his game.
“Every year you try to be a better version of yourself and you try to add to your skill set. The time off gave me that opportunity as well,” he said.
Now back in the Springbok side, Etzebeth’s value goes far beyond his physical presence. With 145 Test caps, he is South Africa’s most-capped player and brings more than a decade of international experience to a squad that continues to operate at the highest level.
His experience in World Cup-winning campaigns, countless battles against the All Blacks and knowledge of Test rugby provide Rassie Erasmus with an invaluable senior figure in the pack.
Etzebeth offers physicality at the breakdown, aggression in defence, a strong presence at lineout time and leadership in the tight exchanges. His ability to absorb pressure and understand the demands of Test rugby is particularly valuable in Rugby’s Greatest Rivalry.
“Every Test against the All Blacks is special. We know the rivalry and what it means to them as well as to us,” he said.
Having met twice in South Africa, the Boks lead the series 2-1, with the final Rugby’s Greatest Rivalry Test set to take place at M&T Stadium in Baltimore on Saturday.
“It’s the decider on whether we actually win the series or it ends up in a draw. So it’s a massive Test match for us and we’re really excited for this weekend,” added the experienced lock.
Etzebeth also believes the historic four-Test series provides the ultimate challenge for players and is an experience to savour.
“I think it’s an amazing time we live in to be able to play a Test series against New Zealand for four weeks in a row. It’s the ultimate test for any player to play against them.”
With the final Test taking place in the United States, Etzebeth is also relishing the opportunity to help showcase rugby ahead of the 2031 World Cup.
“It’s my first time in America and, obviously, with the World Cup coming up in 2031, they’re trying to grow in America,” he said.
“And I think this match is definitely a good start – us against the All Blacks here in Baltimore.”
After suspension, injury and a lack of consistent rugby, Etzebeth has finally found his way back into the heart of the Springbok campaign, and his experience could prove invaluable as South Africa look to finish the series strongly in Baltimore.
