Cheslin Kolbe’s night at FNB Stadium lasted just 10 minutes, with the Springboks star suffering a broken jaw during South Africa’s dramatic 29-24 victory over the All Blacks.
The 32-year-old started at fullback in Saturday’s third Test but was forced from the field after an awkward collision while attempting to stop New Zealand flank Luke Jacobson.
With the Springboks fighting back from a 12-5 deficit to claim victory, Kolbe’s injury quickly became one of the major talking points of the match.
Kolbe’s unfortunate collision
Kolbe attempted to make the tackle as Jacobson charged towards the tryline, but the Springbok’s head appeared to be in an unfortunate position as he made contact with the powerful loose forward.
The incident left Kolbe unable to continue, with Manie Libbok coming on as his replacement.
At the time, it was initially thought that Kolbe had been removed for a Head Injury Assessment. However, he never returned to the field.
After the match, Springboks coach Rassie Erasmus confirmed the severity of the injury.
“Cheslin broke his jaw,” Erasmus said.
Kolbe ruled out of Baltimore Test
The injury means Kolbe will not travel with the Springboks for the fourth Test against New Zealand in Baltimore, United States.
South Africa now head into the final encounter with a 2-1 advantage in the four-Test series and need just one more victory to secure the series win.
New Zealand, meanwhile, must win in Baltimore to force the series level.
Springboks make squad changes
Kolbe’s absence has also prompted a reshuffle in the touring group.
Scrumhalf Herschel Jantjies, who had initially been expected to remain in South Africa, will now travel to the United States as cover.
Erasmus also confirmed that Grant Williams can provide cover on the wing if required.
The Springboks will therefore head to Baltimore without one of their most dangerous attacking players, while preparing for what promises to be another fiercely contested encounter against the All Blacks.
The fourth Test is scheduled to kick off at 23:00 South African time.
Erasmus is expected to announce his team at around 20:00 SA time on Monday.
With the series on the line, the Springboks will be determined to finish the job in the United States — but they will have to do it without Kolbe.
