Boks were not breaking any rules

No 8 Duane Vermeulen (above) has stepped forward in an attempt to clear the air after the controversial “microphone incident” in the Springboks’ final Test of the season against Wales in Cardiff last week.

Vermeulen was spotted on camera chatting to Bok coach Rassie Erasmus over an earpiece during the latter stages of their 20-11 defeat, which was not allowed according to World Rugby rules.

It was alleged they may have been discussing tactics, while it was also suggested that incidents like this could undermine the captaincy of Siya Kolisi, which was later rubbished by Bok management.

According to a News24 report, Erasmus was trying to verify whether Vermeulen was injured and whether he should be replaced by Francois Louw.

Vermeulen confirmed yesterday on social media that he had injured his shoulder during the match.

“That is correct,” Vermeulen said, confirming Erasmus’ claim.

“I dislocated my shoulder in the first half.”

According to SA Rugby magazine, which also referenced News24, Erasmus said their conversation had nothing to do with tactical decisions.

“I saw how Duane injured his shoulder and was holding it, while the doctor and physio were busy attending to other players,” Erasmus said.

“Aled (Walters, conditioning coach) didn’t see it, but he was closest to Duane, so I asked him to ask Duane if he was OK.

“Duane couldn’t understand why he was asking it and said he wanted to quickly talk to me himself. He told me his shoulder was too sore to continue playing.”

Erasmus, meanwhile, had another opportunity to have a look at some of his combinations this weekend, as coach of the Barbarians.

The invitation side, which features multiple Boks players, are set to face Argentina at Twickenham on Saturday.

That is correct, I dislocated my shoulder in the first half.

Duane Vermeulen Springbok No 8