The Springboks have received a timely injury boost after André Esterhuizen avoided surgery on his fractured cheekbone, keeping alive his hopes of facing the All Blacks next month.
While the powerful midfielder is expected to miss the Boks’ next Test against Argentina in Buenos Aires on 8 August, Rapport says he remains on track for the opening Rugby’s Greatest Rivalry Test at Ellis Park on 22 August.
Esterhuizen suffered the injury during the Boks’ victory over England at Ellis Park, leaving the field just 10 minutes into the match.
Initial fears centred on concussion, but blood coming from the 32-year-old’s ear later revealed he had fractured his cheekbone.
According to Rapport, Esterhuizen is expected to spend at least four weeks on the sidelines, but the fact he will not require surgery significantly improves his chances of returning in time for the blockbuster showdown with New Zealand.
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Erasmus confirmed after the Boks’ win against Wales that a reduced squad of 26 or 27 players will travel to Buenos Aires, with a sizeable group remaining at home to prepare for New Zealand’s arrival.
“The important thing is that we don’t want players travelling to Argentina while New Zealand are playing against our franchises, and then flying back while the Kiwis are getting used to South African conditions before the first Test,” Erasmus explained.
“We’ll leave 15, 16 or 17 players behind – depending on injuries – to start preparing for New Zealand.”
Photo: Steve Haag Sports/Gallo Images
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