Rassie Erasmus faces a mounting selection headache as he prepares to name his Springbok squad for the November Nations Championship tour to Europe later this week, with the Bulls’ growing casualty ward threatening to derail his plans. The Pretoria franchise’s injury list reads like a hospital discharge sheet, and none of the names will concern the Springbok coach more than Handré Pollard.
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The veteran flyhalf limped off with a hamstring injury during the Bulls’ 34-26 victory over Ulster on Saturday, immediately casting doubt over his availability for the northern hemisphere assignments. Pollard has undergone a scan, with his fitness to be confirmed once results have been assessed.
But Pollard isn’t the Bulls’ only walking wounded. The franchise provided a sobering injury update on Monday, revealing a casualty list that will limit their options domestically whilst potentially robbing Erasmus of key personnel.
The casualty ward
Canan Moodie has returned to training under Head Injury Assessment (HIA) return-to-play protocols but won’t be considered for selection this week. The versatile back’s progress will be monitored closely given his importance to both Bulls and Springboks.
Cheswill Jooste faces a lengthy spell on the sidelines after undergoing surgery for a broken cheekbone. Having also been concussed against Ulster, he faces a mandatory two-week stand-down under HIA protocols, with extended rest recommended. His tour hopes are effectively over.
Sango Xamlashe won’t be considered for selection this week after completing HIA protocols following concussion in Saturday’s match.
Embrose Papier is recovering from ankle surgery and will be unavailable for several weeks, ruling him out of contention. Thaakir Abrahams offers a rare piece of positive news, the winger is expected to recover from his hamstring injury within a week.
Selection implications
The immediate concern for Bulls coach Johan Ackermann is managing his squad through the coming URC fixtures with a depleted roster. Depth will be tested as they navigate a congested schedule without key personnel.
But Erasmus will be watching developments with growing unease.
If Pollard is ruled out, Erasmus may be forced to rely on less experienced options or recall players who haven’t featured prominently in recent squads. Manie Libbok and Jordan Hendrikse become even more critical, whilst Sacha Feinberg-Mngomezulu’s development takes on added urgency.
