Coetzee’s relief after Etzebeth scare

Springbok coach Allister Coetzee probably breathed a sigh of relief after captain Eben Etzebeth’s ankle injury, which he picked up during the team’s assessment camp this week in Cape Town, was ruled not serious.

Etzebeth twisted his ankle during a training session and as a precaution he was taken for an MRI scan, which revealed a low-grade ligament injury, but he should be available for the first tour match.

Flyhalf Handre Pollard and Etzebeth also both sustained concussion against New Zealand three weeks ago and they are currently busy with their final return to play protocols.

Having lost two of their nine Tests this year, the Bok squad of 34 will be announced on Sunday ahead of their tour to Europe next month with the first Test against Ireland set for November 11.

Eleven contracted Boks attended the camp and Coetzee said he was satisfied with the results of the medical and conditioning assessment.

“We had a similar camp before the Rugby Championship and I am pleased to once more say that this camp was a very good, productive exercise,” he said.

“Apart from the much-needed rest, it is also very important that they are rugby-ready when the full squad gets together next week in Johannesburg.”

Coetzee also had some words of encouragement for the Sharks and the Western Province teams, who are contesting this year’s Currie Cup final tomorrow in Durban.

“I want to congratulate both sides for reaching the Currie Cup final,” said the coach.

“Both provinces have several current Bok squad members or Bok candidates in their teams and I want to wish them both well for the final.”