Springboks duo back in contention

SPRINGBOK hooker Malcolm Marx and flanker Siya Kolisi have returned to training for South Africa as they prepare for their clash with Wales on Saturday.

Marx sat out of the previous Test against Italy as a precautionary measure after he picked up a shoulder injury against France in Paris, while Kolisi was in South Africa for the birth of his second child.

Forwards Francois Louw, Duane Vermeulen and Franco Mostert, who are all based overseas, are not available for the fixture because it falls outside of the international window.

Looking back at the weekend’s win over Italy, Springbok coach Allister Coetzee said: “It was a good performance in tough weather conditions. I don’t think people realise how tough it was out there on Saturday.

“We were strong at set-piece time, our defence was good, and the replacements did well to maintain that standard.

“We put in a good scrumming performance because the surface was firm, our mauling was superb and our lineout functioned well. The big thing for me is the work ethic in the team, and that showed in our massive defensive effort,” added Coetzee.

Regarding the challenge against Wales, the Springbok coach added: “We will be playing against a very good Welsh team with a fantastic coaching staff and experienced international players. We know we have to be at our best again this weekend to keep on with the improvement in our game.”

The Springboks will announce their match 23 tomorrow, with prop Tendai Mtawarira being given as much time as possible to recover from the groin injury he suffered against Italy.