The world champion South African rugby team will be facing Wales in London without some of their principal players. The same squad will be lacking these players for the initial match of their two-Test home series against Ireland in the coming month.
Forwards Cheslin Kolbe, Steven Kitshoff, Jean Kleyn, and Lood de Jager have all been deemed unavailable, according to Rassie Erasmus, the coach. Furthermore, Kolbe’s knee injury puts his participation in doubt. Likewise, the line-up will be lacking backs Canan Moodie, Damien Willemse, and Kurt-Lee Arendse till at least the first Test against Ireland in Pretoria on July 6th.
If the Pretoria-based Bulls lose their United Rugby Championship semi-final to Leinster this Saturday, South Africa could reinforce their squad with players from the Bulls for the Wales encounter, which is not included in the international window. The team might call in Bulls veteran fullback Willie le Roux under these circumstances.
Captain Siya Kolisi’s absence due to France commitments for the Wales match may lead to a change in captain, either temporarily or permanently. The double World Cup victor’s continuation as the Springboks leader is uncertain. Erasmus suggested that front-runner contenders for the role could be Pieter-Steph du Toit or Eben Etzebeth, potentially even Bongi Mbonambi.
Erasmus, who favours domestic-based leadership, highlighted the importance of gaining experience for the younger players under the senior team members’ guidance in preparation for their matches against Ireland. “The senior guys are all leading well. If Siya is fit, he will be in contention for the Tests against Ireland,” he confirmed.
Siya Kolisi’s shift to the French side Racing 92 came after the World Cup victory last year. The finale in France witnessed a 12-11 win against New Zealand, which was the Springboks’ latest game.
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