Etzebeth could be fit for France clash

Eben Etzebeth could be fit to face France on Saturday after initial concerns he could be out for the rest of South Africa’s northern hemisphere tour.

The towering lock limped out of the 12-11 defeat to England at Twickenham last weekend early in the second half with a foot injury.

Springboks head coach Rassie Erasmus stated that Etzebeth would definitely not face Les Bleus in Paris and may also be sidelined for the Tests against Scotland and Wales.

Yet Erasmus was able to provide a positive update on the 27-year-old’s condition on Monday.

“The injury is not as bad as we initially thought and we will give Eben time until Tuesday to prove his fitness,” said Erasmus.

There was further good news for the Springboks when Faf de Klerk, Willie le Roux, Cheslin Kolbe, Franco Mostert, Francois Louw and Vincent Koch linked up with the squad.

Erasmus was unable to call upon his Europe-based players against England, but they will be available to take on France.

Faf de Klerk on the move during the Springbok training session @INSEP_PARIS.#boksontour#CastleLagerOutgoingTour#LoveRugby#FRAvRSA pic.twitter.com/uZjmnNW2g3

— South African Rugby (@Springboks) November 5, 2018

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