Springbok enforcer Botha doubt for Wales clash

South African enforcer Bakkies Botha is a major injury doubt for the Springboks’ opening match of the Rugby World Cup against Wales on Sunday, according to assistant coach Dick Muir.

“We’re a little bit worried about Bakkies, he’s our major concern,” Muir said of the 32-year-old Blue Bulls lock, adding that the Springbok management team would not rush the player back into action.

“I think he’s going to be out for this week unfortunately.

“He has a problem with his achilles tendon. For a big man, it obviously takes a lot of pressure in that area.

“Bakkies is so important for us for the remainder of the competition that we wouldn’t take any chances with Bakkies.”

Muir added that Botha’s second row partner Victor Matfield, winger Bryan Habana and flanker Schalk Burger had “all come through fine” after doubts over their fitness before the Wales game.

“We’ll make a final decision on the injury status on Friday,” Muir said.
 

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