Springboks lock Eben Etzebeth sustained a concerning-looking injury during the Sharks’ United Rugby Championship clash against Ospreys on Friday evening.
It’s the latest setback for the veteran second-rower who was sidelined for nearly five months with a concussion he suffered in the Investec Champions Cup clash against Exeter Chiefs.
His return for the Sharks was then delayed when he sustained an injury during the Springbok alignment camp.
The second rower-would return in the URC clash against Edinburgh but missed the next match through illness.
Limited game time in 2025
As a result, Etzebeth has played just twice since he suffered that head injury against Exeter in December, with his latest appearance lasting under half-an-hour.
This issue will once again concern Sharks boss John Plumtree and Springboks head coach Rassie Erasmus as the powerhouse lock looked in significant discomfort.
The 33-year-old got lengthy treatment on his knee and attempted to remain on the field, but he was soon forced off and was taken from the field on a cart.
Manu Tshituka replaced him with Etzebeth later seen on crutches on the sideline.
The Sharks were 7-3 in front when the Boks’ second-row exited the action. Dan Edwards had given the visitors a lead via an early penalty before Jason Jenkins responded with a try for the home side.
Despite losing one of their Test stars, it did not impact the hosts too much and Andre Esterhuizen powered across the whitewash to increase their advantage.
Eben Etzebeth’s ‘disappointing’ absence explained as Springboks star misses Ulster clash
Return
After the Springboks great had made his return to action in late-April, he revealed his delight at getting back out on the pitch.
“It’s great, it’s been a long time. It’s nice to get back out on the field. I’ve been on the training pitch with the guys for the last couple of weeks,” he said after the 18-17 URC victory over Edinburgh.
“Finally getting a chance again, I was excited to play. We all know it’s the business end of the season so games are becoming more and more important.”
However, it looks like he is set for another stint out of the game, albeit the prognosis will be revealed early next week.
Src: Planetrugby.com - https://www.planetrugby.com/news/eben-etzebeth-on-crutches-after-suffering-another-concerning-injury-in-sharks-urc-clash
