BBC Rugby Union: Springboks Face Lock Conundrum Ahead of Crucial Internationals

(May 15, 2023) – Springboks head coach Rassie Erasmus is grappling with a potential lock crisis as his side prepares for the upcoming international fixtures against Wales, Ireland, and Portugal.

Despite having a wealth of options in the second row, Erasmus is set to be without at least one of his 2023 Rugby World Cup-winning locks, with another player’s availability in doubt.

Injuries Taking a Toll on Springboks Locks

After switching his international allegiance back to South Africa, Jean Kleyn forced his way into the Springboks squad last year and played a key role throughout the World Cup, featuring off the bench in the final against New Zealand. However, Kleyn is now expected to miss the upcoming matches against Ireland in July as he continues to recover from an eye and knee injury that cut his season with Munster short.

Experienced lock Lood de Jager, who missed the World Cup due to a heart condition, has also sustained an injury while playing for the Wild Knights in the Japan Rugby League One final against Toshiba Brave Lupus. The results of his scans are not yet known, but Erasmus will be eager to have the abrasive lock available for selection.

Adding to the growing injury list, Leinster’s Jason Jenkins, a one-cap Springbok, is set to be sidelined for around 12 weeks, potentially missing the upcoming international window.

Possible Disciplinary Issues for Springboks

Erasmus must also keep a close eye on the potential ban for double World Cup-winning lock RG Snyman following his tackle in Munster’s victory over Ulster. Snyman’s shoulder collided directly with the head of Will Addison, and he could face a disciplinary panel in the coming days, potentially missing the rest of Munster’s season and impacting the Springboks.

Depth in the Second Row

Despite the injury concerns, Erasmus has several talented options to fill the void, including Ruan Nortje, a consistent performer for the Bulls, Ruben van Heerden, who has enjoyed a standout season for the Stormers, and Salmaan Moerat, who is likely to be in the selection mix. The versatile Ben-Jason Dixon and Sharks youngster Corne Rahl are also highly regarded, though Rahl’s inclusion may be premature.

As the Springboks prepare for the crucial internationals, Erasmus will be hoping to have his preferred lock combination available, with the depth in the second row offering some reassurance despite the growing injury concerns.

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