2h ago

Boks lament 'talented' Willemse missing out on 'great' opportunity, Nkosi back training

Share
0:00
play article
Subscribers can listen to this article
Damian Willemse. (Photo by David Davies/PA Images via Getty Images)
Damian Willemse. (Photo by David Davies/PA Images via Getty Images)
  • With the exception of Damian Willemse, the Springboks have been given a clean bill of health ahead of Saturday's Test against Scotland. 
  • But Bok assistant Deon Davids admitted that the "talented" play-maker's absence due to concussion is disappointing as he had a great opportunity to stake a claim last week against Wales.
  • Sbu Nkosi has rejoined the squad after passport troubles, but that doesn't mean he'll automatically slot in on the right wing again.

Damian Willemse, unsurprisingly given an unfortunate early end to his game against Wales at the weekend, is the only name on the Springboks' casualty list going into Saturday's meeting with Scotland at Murrayfield.

The mercurial but talented play-maker was afforded an ideal opportunity against Wales to stake his claim for the No 15 jersey in Willie le Roux's absence, only to be taken off in the 14th minute with a severe bout of concussion.

"He'll need to go through the whole 7-day concussion protocol programme, so he's very much in doubt for this week's match," Springbok assistant coach Deon Davids said on Monday.

"Other than that, we're fine. Everyone is available."

Boks on tour:

        Following a year of underachievement at franchise level - where he was regularly picked at flyhalf for the Stormers - Willemse experienced a surge in form for the Capetonians at fullback before the series against the British & Irish Lions.

        It's little wonder then that Davids and co lamented things not going to plan at the Principality Stadium.

        "We're definitely disappointed," he said.

        "Part of the plan was to built overall momentum, but also identify certain positions where we can build depth, to give certain players some playing opportunity.

        "It was Damian's chance last week to gain experience. We looked forward to seeing him perform in such a competitive environment, particularly in terms to see where he's at in his development and what he can bring going forward. Unfortunately, it didn't work out for him."

        The Boks had the luxury of a 34-year-old Frans Steyn playing at his wily best to soften the blow and there can be no doubt that the coaching staff will retain their faith in Willemse once he's recovered:

        We know Damian is a talented guy, he'll bounce back and things will work out for him. Frans showed the importance of having experience in your squad and grooming the youngsters going forward.

        Meanwhile, Sbu Nkosi slotted back in for training on Monday following his passport blues to bolster South Africa's offering on the right wing though Davids admitted his return to the starting line-up might not quite be a formality.

        "We'll assess him in terms of where he is and then make a call on his match readiness," he said.

        "Jesse Kriel played at the weekend and we also have someone like Aphelele Fassi, who comes into contention at both fullback and wing. This is one of the debates we've been having over the past few days."

        The Springboks announce their team for the Scotland clash on Tuesday.
        We live in a world where facts and fiction get blurred
        In times of uncertainty you need journalism you can trust. For only R75 per month, you have access to a world of in-depth analyses, investigative journalism, top opinions and a range of features. Journalism strengthens democracy. Invest in the future today.
        Subscribe to News24