Eben Etzebeth Injury Doubt Adds Pressure to Springboks Ahead of New Zealand Clash

Eben Etzebeth might miss South Africa’s crucial Rugby Championship match against New Zealand due to injury. The Springboks’ second row is already depleted with long-term injuries. Forward coach Deon Davids confirmed that key players Salmaan Moerat and RG Snyman are also out. The team will name replacements soon.

Eben Etzebeth's participation in South Africa's pivotal Rugby Championship match against New Zealand is in doubt due to injury, intensifying pressure on the already depleted Springboks' second row, according to forwards coach Deon Davids.

With long-term injuries sidelining Lood de Jager, Franco Mostert, and Jean Kleyn, the Springboks have confirmed that Salmaan Moerat and RG Snyman will also miss the weekend clash in Johannesburg. Etzebeth's absence would be a significant blow ahead of the first encounter between the teams since South Africa's narrow World Cup final win over New Zealand last October.

Davids revealed Etzebeth is struggling with a minor injury, and his availability is uncertain. Snyman will miss several weeks due to a leg injury, while Moerat must clear a head injury assessment after being concussed in their recent win against the Wallabies. The squad has called up French-based Nicolaas Janse van Rensburg as a possible replacement. The final team will be announced on Tuesday.

(With inputs from agencies.)