The Springboks battled their way to a victory over Argentina on Saturday, but one of the biggest concerns is undoubtedly the injury suffered by captain Siya Kolisi early on.
Kolisi was making his comeback from a hamstring injury, but was forced to withdraw from the game in Buenos Aires in the first half. It’s said to be his other hamstring that he injured this time around.
“I hurt my hamstring again, unfortunately. So, I’ll go for a scan and see how far it is,” he said during a post-match interview.
“It is really tough, but I can’t be sad about it,” the skipper added. “There is nothing I can do now, other than to go and have a scan and then see how long I’m out for.”
Springboks set to make shock call-up to cover for Kolisi
As the Springboks now wait for further details on the severity of Kolisi’s injury, SARugbymag.co.za reports that an impeccable source has confirmed that Stormers veteran Deon Fourie has been called up to the national squad.
Fourie, who turns 40 on 25 September, produced an outstanding performance in the Stormers’ clash against the All Blacks in their tour opener on Friday.
The utility forward last featured for the Springboks against the All Blacks in the 2023 World Cup final, when he came off the bench to play hooker for 77 minutes.
His experience and leadership may be seen as the perfect resource to have in reserve if there is doubt over Kolisi, although Paul de Villiers and Marco van Staden offer more direct back-up at openside flank.
High praise for Fourie
Following last Friday’s clash between the All Blacks and Stormers, director of rugby John Dobson lauded Fourie’s efforts.
“An incredible performance … for a guy who’s again coming back from a serious injury.
“He’s almost 40. He made three tackles in 15 seconds, and two of them were try-saving.
“Deon is remarkable.”
Since the 2023 World Cup, Fourie has suffered a serious knee injury, an ankle issue, a serious bicep injury and most recently knee ligament damage, and yet he has refused to allow this to bring an end to a remarkable career.
