In recent times there has been some growing concern over Eben Etzebeth’s extended absence from action due to the ongoing effects from concussion.
It is an area of player wellness that has increasingly become a major focal point in the sports medical field, particularly for rugby.
A lot more is known about the importance of treating concussion far more carefully and conservatively these days, and the fact that Etzebeth is “being managed by concussion specialists” speaks volumes about how far medical practices have come in this regard.
The good news is that Etzebeth has recently been reintegrated into training at the Sharks, and it is expected that he will soon be available for selection once again.
During a media update on Wednesday, Springbok coach Rassie Erasmus also confirmed that they are confident that Etzebeth – who is a close friend of Siya Kolisi – will be fully available to feature prominently this season, quelling any concerns that it could be a career-threatening issue that the big lock is contending with.
Etzebeth and Kolisi are expected to have big roles to play for the Springboks in 2025
Meanwhile, it’s also become evident that Erasmus is completely clear in his thinking when it comes to settling on the viability for Kolisi to continue as captain.
The Springbok coaches are known to have a definite plan to ensure that Kolisi makes it to the next World Cup in 2027, and that his game-time will be managed with this in mind.
It stands to reason that Kolisi may not always be able to serve as the run-on captain, but the Springboks are blessed with a healthy leadership group.
On Wednesday, Erasmus confirmed that as long as the loose forward continues to perform at the top of his game, then he will continue as captain in the games that he plays.
Kolisi quite recently returned to the Sharks from French club Racing 92, and it’s understood that a big factor in this decision was to reduce the workload on his body as he looks to extend his international career.
“When I put on the green-and-gold jersey, I feel like a superhero,” he said in a lengthy interview with The Times. “I feel like I can do anything and I don’t want to lose that. I don’t want to give that up.
“The next person that takes it [the jersey] from me, they’re going to have to grab it, because I’m going to fight. And my body feels strong, so I think I can.”
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Src: TheSouthAfrican.com - https://rugga.co.za/springboks/springboks-big-updates-on-kolisi-etzebeth/
