In a significant development for the Springboks, coach Rassie Erasmus has called upon the services of Rugby World Cup-winning lock Jean Kleyn to replace the injured Ruan Nortje ahead of their autumn internationals in the UK. Nortje, who has been a standout performer for the Boks this season, suffered a leg injury during a training session on Wednesday, prompting Erasmus to draft in the experienced Kleyn.
Kleyn’s Return Bolsters Springbok Lineup
The 31-year-old Kleyn, who last played for the Springboks in their victorious World Cup final against New Zealand last year, has been out of action for an extended period due to an eye injury. His return to the national squad is a welcome boost for the Boks as they prepare to face Scotland in Edinburgh on Sunday.
Erasmus expressed his disappointment at losing Nortje to injury, praising the lock’s impressive performances this season. “It’s sad to lose Ruan to injury, as he’s had a fantastic season and really made a strong statement after injuries initially prompted his call-up to the squad,” Erasmus said in a statement. “He certainly grabbed the opportunity with both hands, and we wish him luck with his recovery.”
Familiar Face in the Squad
Erasmus, however, was quick to highlight the positives of Kleyn’s return, noting his familiarity with the team’s structures and his impressive performances for Munster since coming back from injury. “Ruan’s injury opens the door for Jean to make a return to the national squad for the first time this season, and judging by his performances for Munster since making a comeback to the Vodacom URC, combined with his familiarity of our structures and being a regular in our team last season, we are excited to welcome him back,” Erasmus added.
“He’s also played with most of the players in the squad and is familiar with the conditions in the UK as he’s based in Ireland, so he should slot in with ease.”
– Rassie Erasmus, Springbok coach
Valuable Experience Added to Lock Stocks
Kleyn’s international experience, with five Test matches for Ireland and seven for the Springboks, including a World Cup title, adds valuable depth to the Bok lock stocks for the tour. He joins the likes of RG Snyman, Franco Mostert, and Eben Etzebeth in what is shaping up to be a formidable Springbok second row.
As the Springboks prepare to name their matchday team to face Scotland on Friday, all eyes will be on how Erasmus chooses to integrate Kleyn into the lineup. With his wealth of experience and proven track record at the highest level, Kleyn’s presence is sure to provide the Boks with added confidence as they look to kick off their autumn internationals on a high note.
Springboks Poised for Autumn Challenges
The autumn internationals present a unique challenge for the Springboks, as they face the best teams from the northern hemisphere on their own turf. However, with a squad brimming with talent and experience, including the return of Jean Kleyn, the Boks will be confident in their ability to rise to the occasion and cement their status as one of the world’s top rugby nations.
As the anticipation builds for the clash against Scotland, rugby fans around the world will be eagerly awaiting the opportunity to see the Springboks in action once more, with Kleyn’s return adding an extra layer of intrigue to what promises to be a thrilling encounter.
