The Springboks have called up Gio Aplon and Dean Greyling to camp following injury concerns around Zane Kirchner and Coenie Oosthuizen, respectively.
They will join the team in Johannesburg, where they are currently preparing for the second Test against England at Ellis Park on Saturday.
“We are not going to risk any player that is struggling with injuries and it was decided to call in replacements for both Zane and Coenie,” said Springbok coach Heyneke Meyer, in a statement from the SA Rugby Union on Monday.
Kirchner injured his knee late in the first half of the first Test win in Durban, and underwent a scan on Monday morning.
It was decided that he would not be considered for the second Test and will be re-examined next week.
Oosthuizen experienced some stiffness to his shoulder and neck area on Monday morning, with the national medical team decided on a cautious approach.
He will be sent for a scan in the next 24 hours after which a decision will be made.
Meyer said he was pleased to have Aplon (16 Tests) and Greyling (two Tests), who are familiar with being in the international set up.
“Both Dean and Gio were on our official list of standby players and are fortunate that both of them have played Test rugby for South Africa before,” he said.
“They have also been in good form in Super Rugby and were two of the unlucky players that did not make the initial 32-man squad.
“They also attended our planning camps and should be up to speed with how we want to play.
“I'm looking forward to welcoming them to the squad.” – Sapa