Rassie Erasmus has been handed another injury headache with several key Springbok players picking up knocks during a bruising United Rugby Championship weekend.
With South Africa’s end-of-year tour approaching, the timing could hardly be worse for the national team.
The Springboks were already dealing with a growing injury list before the latest round of URC action. Cheslin Kolbe has been ruled out of the tour as he continues his recovery from a broken jaw, while concerns remain over Eben Etzebeth.
Meanwhile, Frans Malherbe, Kwagga Smith and RG Snyman are also currently sidelined.
Now, several more players have joined the injury watch.
Esterhuizen injury adds to Rassie’s concerns
One of the biggest concerns came from Cardiff, where Andre Esterhuizen was forced off early during the Sharks’ victory.
The versatile back suffered what appeared to be a serious ankle injury and was later seen wearing a moon boot.
Esterhuizen has become an important option for Erasmus, particularly because of his ability to provide impact off the bench. His potential absence could therefore leave the Springboks with another major selection headache.
More injuries hit South African teams
The injury problems continued on Saturday.
Stormers veteran Deon Fourie suffered a hamstring injury, while André-Hugo Venter picked up an elbow problem during the physical encounter with the Scarlets.
Fourie had been expected to be part of the Springboks’ plans, making his injury particularly concerning as the international window approaches.
There was more bad news for Erasmus when Handré Pollard was forced off during the Bulls’ match after suffering a hamstring injury.
Bulls coach Johan Ackermann admitted it had been an unusually difficult weekend from an injury perspective.
Stormers also counting the cost
The Stormers were left dealing with their own selection crisis after a physically demanding match.
Director of rugby John Dobson revealed just how difficult the situation became, particularly with the number of injuries affecting the team’s hookers.
The severity of the weekend has highlighted the physical demands being placed on players as the URC campaign gathers momentum.
Big selection decisions ahead for Erasmus
The Springboks have built impressive depth in recent years, but the growing injury list is testing that strength at a crucial stage of the season.
Erasmus will now have to monitor the injured players closely before finalising his squad for the end-of-year Tests.
With several established internationals already unavailable, every additional injury could have a major impact on South Africa’s plans.
Will the Springboks be able to overcome their growing injury crisis ahead of the end-of-year tour?
