The Springboks have reportedly turned to one of their most experienced campaigners after captain Siya Kolisi suffered another hamstring injury during South Africa’s hard-fought victory over Argentina in Buenos Aires.
According to reports, veteran Stormers forward Deon Fourie has been called into the national squad as the Springboks assess their options ahead of the upcoming series against the All Blacks.
Kolisi injury creates fresh concern
Kolisi’s return to Test rugby was cut short on Saturday after the Springbok captain was forced off during the first half against Argentina.
The flanker had only recently returned from a hamstring problem, but this time the injury is reportedly to his other hamstring.
Speaking after the match, Kolisi confirmed that he would undergo a scan to determine the extent of the problem.
“I hurt my hamstring again, unfortunately.”
The injury is an obvious concern for Rassie Erasmus, particularly with a demanding period of international rugby ahead.
Deon Fourie reportedly returns to the Springboks
With uncertainty surrounding Kolisi’s availability, reports suggest that Deon Fourie has been brought into the Springbok setup.
The veteran forward has been in impressive form for the Stormers and recently produced a standout performance against the All Blacks.
Fourie’s return would provide the Springboks with an enormous amount of experience. The versatile forward has played both loose forward and hooker during his career and was part of the South African squad that lifted the 2023 Rugby World Cup.
He famously featured in the World Cup final against New Zealand, coming off the bench and spending 77 minutes on the field.
Fourie continues to defy the odds
Fourie’s potential return is particularly remarkable given his age and injury history.
The Stormers veteran turns 40 on 25 September, yet he continues to compete at the highest level.
His recent performance against the All Blacks drew huge praise from Stormers director of rugby John Dobson, who highlighted Fourie’s work rate and defensive contribution.
Despite suffering significant injuries in recent seasons, including knee, ankle and bicep problems, Fourie has repeatedly battled his way back onto the field.
His experience could now prove valuable to the Springboks at a crucial stage of the season.
Springboks have options
While Fourie brings versatility and leadership, South Africa still have other options at loose forward.
Paul de Villiers and Marco van Staden provide more natural openside-flanker alternatives, while the Springboks could also consider other combinations depending on Kolisi’s recovery timeline.
For now, the priority will be determining the severity of Kolisi’s injury.
If the captain is unavailable for the upcoming All Blacks series, Fourie’s reported return could provide the Springboks with another experienced head in a squad preparing for one of the biggest challenges of the international season.
The big question now is whether Kolisi will recover in time—and whether the veteran Fourie will get another opportunity to wear the green and gold.
