By Lehlohonolo Lehana.
The Springboks called up veteran lock Lood de Jager as they prepare to face Argentina in a Rugby Championship Test at Twickenham in London.
Boks touched down in London on Monday morning, brimming with confidence after back-to-back demolition jobs against New Zealand and Argentina.
They head into the decider at the top of the standings, one point clear of the All Blacks, with everything to play for in pursuit of a first-ever back-to-back Rugby Championship crown.
In a statement, SA Rugby said, “Experienced lock Lood de Jager will join the Springboks in London on Monday as cover for Franco Mostert, who remained behind in South Africa on Sunday due to a family bereavement.
De Jager suffered a niggle in the team’s record 43-10 victory against the All Blacks in Wellington, but fortunately for Springbok coach Rassie Erasmus, he has made a full recovery and is available for selection.
Erasmus said: “We all feel deeply for Franco and wish him strength during this challenging time, and we’ll support him as well as we can.”
“Fortunately, Lood has recovered from his injury, and his experience and leadership will be valuable in such an important week for the team.”
“This is a massive game, and we have no doubt Argentina will come out guns blazing,” Erasmus said.
“But at the same time, we have a chance to win the competition back-to-back for the first time in history, so we have all the motivation we need this week.”
The Boks will enjoy a recovery day before resuming training on Tuesday, when Erasmus will also confirm his match squad for the Twickenham blockbuster.