Rising Stormers flyhalf Yaqeen Ahmed could have his first Springbok tour cut short after reporting a shoulder problem, with coach Rassie Erasmus considering sending the youngster back to South Africa for medical assessments.
The Springboks could be forced to make an unexpected change to their touring squad following concerns over the fitness of promising young flyhalf Yaqeen Ahmed.
The 20-year-old was among six uncapped players selected in South Africa’s 37-man squad for the November leg of the Nations Championship. However, his involvement in the tour is now uncertain after he reported a shoulder injury.
Ahmed has enjoyed an impressive start to the season with the Stormers and previously made a strong impression at junior international level. His inclusion in the Springbok squad had generated excitement among supporters eager to see him make the step up to Test rugby.
That opportunity may have to wait, though, depending on the results of further medical examinations.
Erasmus provides an update on Ahmed’s injury
Speaking during Monday’s team announcement, Erasmus revealed that Ahmed had informed the coaching staff about discomfort in his shoulder.
The Springbok coach praised the youngster for being upfront about the problem rather than attempting to conceal an injury.
“He was honest with me and told me he had a sore shoulder,” Erasmus explained.
“Normally new players would try and hide an injury a bit, but he was nice and honest.”
Erasmus added that the coaching staff wanted all members of the touring group to participate fully in training rather than simply watch from the sidelines.
“If we need somebody and he can’t play, we’ll make the call whether he has to return to South Africa,” he said.
The coach indicated that Ahmed would probably need to return home for scans, although a final decision was expected on Tuesday.
“It looks like he’ll have to go back home and go for a scan or two, but we’ll make that call,” Erasmus added.
Springboks have a longer-term plan for their newcomers
While supporters may have hoped to see some of the uncapped players make their debuts against Italy, Erasmus has made it clear that the coaching staff are taking a measured approach.
The newcomers were brought into camp to familiarise themselves with the Springbok environment, understand the team’s systems and learn from more experienced players.
Rather than rushing them into international rugby, the plan is to give them time to settle before assessing opportunities in the coming weeks.
“They all joined us in camp today and are excited about the tour ahead,” Erasmus said.
He added that the coaching team hoped to give the young players opportunities to demonstrate their abilities against top-level opposition during the tour.
The coach also expressed confidence in the talent within the group, describing the newcomers as special players who bring different qualities to the squad.
Springboks prepare for Italy Test in Turin
South Africa’s November campaign begins against Italy this Saturday, with kick-off scheduled for 13:40 South African time.
Erasmus has selected an experienced starting XV for the opening encounter, with Siya Kolisi leading the side.
The confirmed match-day team is as follows:
Springboks starting XV
15 Damian Willemse, 14 Kurt-Lee Arendse, 13 Jesse Kriel, 12 Damian de Allende, 11 Ethan Hooker, 10 Sacha Feinberg-Mngomezulu, 9 Morné van den Berg, 8 Jasper Wiese, 7 Pieter-Steph du Toit, 6 Siya Kolisi (captain), 5 Ruan Nortjé, 4 Salmaan Moerat, 3 Thomas du Toit, 2 Malcolm Marx, 1 Ox Nché.
Replacements
16 Jan-Hendrik Wessels, 17 Gerhard Steenekamp, 18 Wilco Louw, 19 Lood de Jager, 20 Cameron Hanekom, 21 Paul de Villiers, 22 Grant Williams, 23 Manie Libbok.
Will Ahmed get another chance to impress?
For now, Ahmed’s immediate future on the tour depends on the outcome of his medical assessments and the Springbok coaching staff’s decision.
A return to South Africa would be disappointing for the young flyhalf, particularly after earning his first senior national-team opportunity. However, ensuring that he receives the right treatment and recovers properly will be the priority.
Springbok supporters will be hoping the shoulder problem is not serious and that the promising Stormers youngster gets another opportunity to represent his country in the near future.
