Springboks’ injury list expands before the start of 2011 Tri-Nations Cup - Rugby News
The injury crisis for the Springboks deepens before the start of Tri-Nations Cup 2011, as 21 players from the 2011 Rugby World Cup (RWC) preliminary squad have been ruled out due to various injuries.
South Africa Rugby Union revealed that most of the injuries have been sustained during the Super Rugby championship and injured players will not be included in the Tri-Nations crew. Tri-Nations Cup will kick off on July 23 as South Africa takes on the hosts Australia in the opening match of the tournament.
Sout Africa Rugby Union (SARU) told the media on July 6, that it will not take any risk by including half-fit players ahead of Rugby World Cup 2011. The Union further said that it will initially announce the only team for the first two matches to be played on July 23 and 30th against Australia and New Zealand.
The team doctor for the Springboks, Craig Roberts, confirmed the injury reports and said that a large numbers of the players, almost half of the squad, will miss the Tri-Nations Cup due to fitness issues. He added that, "There are a number of other players who have been playing through Super Rugby with chronic injuries and need rehabilitation now to avoid the risk of breaking down with longer term injuries in the near future,"
The most injuries have been sustained by the forward packs of the Springboks. According to the details provided, 13 forwards have fallen prey to various ailments. The injured list includes many key players including Jaque Fourie, Victor Matfield, Juan Smith, Fourie du Preez and Schalk Burger.
The manager of the South African rugby team, Andy Marinos, also spoke to the press about the recent injuries and said that, "Some players have had a huge amount of rugby and it shows in the wear and tear on their bodies. We're treating them on an individual basis to make sure they are fully fit to peak at the right times this year."
South Africa will name their final squad for Tri-Nations Cup 2011 on Saturday, July 9.
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