South Africa have been dealt a nightmare double setback with skipper Siya Kolisi and fellow back-row powerhouse Pieter-Steph du Toit both ruled out of this weekend’s Rugby Championship showdown against Australia.
The world champions are still licking their wounds after their opening-round collapse in Johannesburg, where they astonishingly let slip a 22-0 lead as the Wallabies roared back with 38 unanswered points to stun Ellis Park.
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Kolisi limped off just before half-time with a knee problem, while Du Toit was forced off later after failing a head injury assessment. The Springboks’ talismanic captain is now staring at three to four weeks out, while Du Toit must complete a mandatory 12-day stand-down period.
The crisis doesn’t end there. Head coach Rassie Erasmus is already without wings Kurt-Lee Arendse and Edwill van der Merwe, who will also miss the clash in Cape Town.
There is at least some light at the end of the tunnel with Cheslin Kolbe fit again and set to slot into the back three, while centre Damian de Allende is also back in the mix.
But Erasmus faces a serious rethink of his back row, especially after being outmuscled on the deck by Joe Schmidt’s men at Ellis Park.
“They gave us shots there,” Erasmus admitted. “Siya hurt his knee about five minutes from half time and shortly after that Marco [van Staden’s] mouthguard pinged which meant he needed to be assessed. Then Kwagga had to come on, then Pieter[-Steph du Toit] had to go off concussed. [The Wallabies] were really good at the breakdown – and legally so. They really had our number there.”
To make matters worse, No.8 Jasper Wiese remains suspended, leaving the Springboks’ back-row depth stretched to breaking point.
EDITORS PICKS:
2027 Rugby World Cup draw: England to play Hong Kong
The tournament’s structure and timing now better reflect current global rankings, thanks to a late pool draw in December this year made possible by reforms in 2022.
Here’s a breakdown of the predicted groups and team bios for the RWC 2027:
🏆 Group A
New Zealand 🇳🇿
The legendary All Blacks need no introduction—three-time world champions with a relentless pursuit of perfection and a legacy of innovation.
Argentina 🇦🇷
Los Pumas continue to rise as a Tier 1 nation, combining flair and fearlessness. Semifinalists in 2007 and 2015, they’re known for big-game upsets.
Samoa 🇼🇸
With deep roots in rugby tradition, Samoa’s raw physicality and natural flair make them one of the most dangerous Tier 2 teams in the game.
Tonga 🇹🇴
The ‘Ikale Tahi’ bring bone-crunching tackles and island pride. With several stars playing abroad, Tonga is always capable of springing a surprise.
🌍 Group B
Ireland 🇮🇪
The current Six Nations champions and long-time world number one, Ireland seek to finally break their quarterfinal curse with a golden generation.
Scotland 🏴
A Six Nations stalwart, Scotland blends tactical kicking and dynamic playmakers, looking to go beyond the quarterfinals for the first time since 1991.
Japan 🇯🇵
The Brave Blossoms became global darlings in 2019 with a stunning quarterfinal run. Expect lightning-quick rucks and passionate homegrown talent.
Chile 🇨🇱
One of the emerging forces from South America, Chile made its first RWC appearance in 2023. Physical, proud, and improving fast.
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