The Springboks have made an important squad adjustment ahead of their Nations Championship clash against France, with experienced lock Eben Etzebeth receiving a recall while young flyhalf Yaqeen Ahmed returns to South Africa.
Head coach Rassie Erasmus confirmed the changes on Sunday following South Africa’s impressive 66-7 victory over Italy in Turin.
Etzebeth will join the squad in France on Monday after recovering from the injury that initially ruled him out of the touring group for the second phase of the Nations Championship.
Ahmed, meanwhile, has been released from the squad because of a shoulder problem that has affected his preparations.
Etzebeth Returns to Strengthen Springbok Pack
The return of Etzebeth is a major boost for the Springboks as they prepare for two important Tests against France and Ireland.
The veteran lock is South Africa’s most-capped player, having made 147 Test appearances for his country. His experience, physical presence and leadership are expected to strengthen the squad during a crucial stage of the competition.
Etzebeth was initially unavailable for the tour because of injury, but his recovery has allowed Erasmus to bring him back into the national setup.
The decision to recall the experienced forward comes as the Springboks prepare for a demanding encounter against France in Paris.
Yaqeen Ahmed Released After Shoulder Problem
While Etzebeth’s return is positive news for South Africa, Ahmed’s departure will be disappointing for the young flyhalf.
The 20-year-old was among six uncapped players selected in the original squad and had earned his first call-up to the senior national team.
However, a sore shoulder limited his involvement in training ahead of the 66-7 victory over Italy. After assessing his condition, the Springbok management decided that returning home to recover would be the best option.
Erasmus expressed sympathy for the youngster but believes the experience of spending time with the national squad will benefit his development.
“We are very sad for Yaqeen after earning his first call-up to the national squad, but we feel it will be best for him to return to South Africa to recover,” Erasmus said.
The coach added that Ahmed had spent a week with the squad, giving him valuable exposure to the team’s operations and playing systems.
Erasmus Explains Why Etzebeth Was the Preferred Replacement
According to Erasmus, the Springboks have sufficient cover in the backline, including several versatile players, which allowed the coaching staff to prioritise strengthening the forward pack.
The coach believes Etzebeth’s experience and leadership will be particularly valuable with two major international fixtures approaching.
“With enough backline cover in the squad and a number of versatile players among them, we opted to call up Eben, who will not only bring vast experience to the group at this vital stage of the Nations Championship, but also valuable leadership skills,” Erasmus explained.
South Africa face France and Ireland over the next two weeks before the tournament’s Finals Weekend.
Springboks vs France: Match Details
The Springboks will take on France at the Stade de France in Paris on Friday, 13 November.
Erasmus is expected to announce his match-23 on Monday, giving supporters a clearer picture of the team that will attempt to secure another important result in the Nations Championship.
The Test kicks off at 22:10 South African time and will be broadcast live on SuperSport.
With Etzebeth back in the squad, the Springboks will be hoping his experience can help them navigate a challenging assignment against France.
