The Springboks have already ignited preparations for their mid-year Tests and upcoming Rugby Championship.

Rassie Erasmus will sift through over eighty players until he names his first fifteen against Italy on July 5. The World Cup-winning coach has talent in abundance, from rookies to veterans, making the Springbok selection process one of the hardest in world sports.

The 52-year-old coach has the tedious task of deciding between world-class players in every position. It’s a good problem to have, but a problem nonetheless.

Big injuries

Question marks surround the future of Springbok legend Eben Etzebeth, who continues to suffer setbacks three months after leaving the pitch with a concussion. Sharks coach John Plumtree believes the 33-year-old will return to action before the end of the month. We hope that’s the case.

Bulls Elrigh Louw is likely to miss the entire year after tearing the ligaments in his left knee against Lions on January 25. “I’m waiting for the specialist to give me the go-ahead so I can start my rehab,” Louw told SA Rugby magazine.

“The specialist said it’s about a year-long recovery but it’s an outcome-based plan, so if I’m feeling better in 11 months or even nine months, then I’ll be ready to go.

“I would like to be back as soon as possible but realistically, I’m targeting January or February next year. I think that’s a good goal for me, to be able to play a few games before the Springbok Tests begin in 2026,” Louw added.

“I had to wait three weeks for the swelling to go down before I could get the operation. After the surgery, for the next week I was stuck in bed. Luckily I’m no longer bed-bound and I can stand up. I can’t put any pressure on my leg, and I can’t bend it.

“A milestone for me is being without pain. I can move freely on crutches now and drive around, so I’m not stuck at home.”

Will the Springboks beat New Zealand twice this year?

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Src: TheSouthAfrican.com - https://rugga.co.za/springboks/springbok-news-forward-out-for-2025-etzebeth-gets-grim-news/