South African Springboks battling Metro Racing for Steyn
The South African Springboks were hoping to have Frans Steyn in the line-up for their three upcoming Tri-Nations home games against the New Zealand All Blacks and the Australia Wallabies. However, Steyn was held back when he was informed by his club that an injury to his quad, suffered a couple weeks ago, was not clear to train on.
The Boks say that they understand if Steyn is not fit, but have requested medical records from his French-based club Metro Racing. Metro Racing has yet to provide the Boks with such records outlining the extent of Steyn’s injury.
The Boks claim that they have attempted to contact Metro Racing several times over the past week, but the French side has been unwilling to co-operate.
South African Rugby Union manager Andy Marinos had this to say of the dispute, “What is concerning is that the communication has been scarce, in spite of persistent attempts to get clarity on the matter. The notification process is quite clear and in terms of regulations, the player can’t be held back. Whether we persist or not it won’t make any difference next Saturday, but we now want the assurance of when Frans will be available.”
The Springboks planned on brining Steyn in at the full back position, a spot they have been unsure about since the beginning of the tournament.
There is speculation that Metro Racing would like Steyn to stay with the club, because they also have matches over the three weekends he has been asked to play by the Boks. In addition, the Boks are no longer in contention for the tournament title, and Steyn may be better served to stay with his French side, which opens the season this week.
This has bothered the South African delegation who was expecting Steyn in the line-up.
Marinos had this to say of the position the Boks now find themselves: “we followed the protocol and sit now with the frustration of not having all the relevant information from the doctors so that (coach) Peter (De Villiers) and the selectors can see the extent of the injury.”
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