The Springboks could be forced to appoint a new captain for the opening Test against the All Blacks, with Siya Kolisi facing another injury setback.
Kolisi was forced off during Saturday’s match in Buenos Aires after suffering what has been described as another hamstring strain. The timing is particularly frustrating, as the veteran flanker had only just returned from a previous hamstring injury that kept him out of all three July Tests.
The full extent of the latest injury is yet to be confirmed, but hamstring problems can require careful management. That leaves South Africa with a major question ahead of the four-Test Rugby’s Greatest Rivalry series: who leads the Boks if Kolisi isn’t fit?
Who Could Captain the Springboks?
1. Pieter-Steph du Toit
Pieter-Steph du Toit appears to be one of the strongest candidates.
The experienced forward captained the Springboks during the July Tests and impressed in the leadership role. If Kolisi is ruled out for the beginning of the series, du Toit could be the natural choice to continue leading the side.
2. Eben Etzebeth
Eben Etzebeth is another obvious option.
The veteran lock took over as captain after Kolisi left the field in Buenos Aires and has extensive experience leading the Springboks.
His presence, experience and leadership within the forward pack make him a strong contender if Rassie Erasmus needs a replacement captain.
3. Jesse Kriel
Jesse Kriel could also enter the conversation.
The experienced centre captained South Africa in three Tests last year and has previously earned the trust of head coach Rassie Erasmus.
His calm leadership and long-standing involvement with the national team make him another viable option.
Kolisi Waiting for Scan Results
Kolisi’s immediate focus is on finding out exactly how serious the injury is.
Following the match, the Springbok captain confirmed that he would undergo a scan to determine the extent of the hamstring problem.
The setback comes at an unfortunate time for Kolisi, who had worked his way back from injury and was preparing for another major Test campaign against New Zealand.
For now, the Springboks will have to wait for the medical assessment before making a final call on his availability.
Springboks Have Forward Cover
South Africa appear to have anticipated the need for additional depth in the loose-forward department.
Erasmus has called veteran utility forward Deon Fourie into the squad for the upcoming Rugby’s Greatest Rivalry series.
The 39-year-old Rugby World Cup winner is most comfortable at openside flank and brings a wealth of experience to the Springbok pack.
Fourie is due to join the squad in Johannesburg as preparations ramp up for the four-Test series.
Four Tests Against the All Blacks
The historic series gets underway at Ellis Park on 22 August, before the rivals meet again in Cape Town, Johannesburg and the United States.
Rugby’s Greatest Rivalry fixtures:
- 22 August: South Africa vs New Zealand — Ellis Park, Johannesburg
- 29 August: South Africa vs New Zealand — DHL Stadium, Cape Town
- 5 September: South Africa vs New Zealand — FNB Stadium, Johannesburg
- 12 September: South Africa vs New Zealand — M&T Bank Stadium, Baltimore
With Kolisi’s availability now uncertain, the captaincy could become one of the biggest talking points before the first Test.
Who should lead the Springboks if Siya Kolisi is ruled out? Du Toit, Etzebeth or Kriel?
