- Even though some of them might not be available for selection, the Springboks will belatedly have a full squad together again later on Monday.
- Assistant coach Mzwandile Stick confirmed that Covid-19 "victims" Siya Kolisi and co still need to undergo medical tests related to return-to-play protocols, but are out of isolation.
- Stick isn't concerned about the real possibility that a player like Kolisi might not be ready for selection, stating that there's "enough class" to fill the void.
Whether everyone is available for selection is a different matter, but the Springboks will receive the morale boost of finally having all 46 squad members together in camp again this week.
South Africa's team management and players have been scattered between Cape Town and Johannesburg to date following a Covid-19 outbreak in the aftermath of the Test against Georgia almost three weeks ago.
But assistant coach Mzwandile Stick confirmed that the last group of previously quarantined players and staff will arrive in the Mother City by Monday afternoon.
That includes influential members such as captain Siya Kolisi and Makazole Mapimpi.
"We are in a good space after all the challenges we faced. It's a Test match week, so I feel comfortable saying that things will be almost 100% normal again," said Stick.
"To be honest, with everything that's happened, I believe [the Covid disruption] happened at the right time. We have everyone back, it's a good position to be in."
However, Kolisi and a few other team-mates still need to clear lung and heart tests related to virus return-to-play protocols, suggesting there won't be enough time for them to be ready for selection in Saturday's first Test against the British & Irish Lions.
"They must still go and see the specialist. Anything can happen with those results. I don't want to start talking about medical terms, but we're hoping some of them can return to training. Some positive news would be good," said Stick.
Yet even if a key player such as Kolisi can't be considered for selection, there's a sufficient number of leaders present to stand-in for the loose forward, notably official vice-captain Handre Pollard and Lukhanyo Am, who was excellent as South Africa 'A' captain last week.
"I'm not worried at all, even if one or two of the players aren't cleared to play this weekend," said Stick.
"And that's down to the class that's in our squad. We have more than enough depth. Of course it would be great if everyone's available and we can pick the best from the best, but if it can't happen I have no doubt that the rest have what it takes to win us the Test.
"We'll respect any decision taken (on Monday)."
The Springboks name their team for the first Test on Wednesday.