Venter joins Bok squad as Kriel, De Allende out

Jesse Kriel scores a try during the Test match against France played at the Loftus Stadium. Photo: KIM LUDBROOK/EPA

Jesse Kriel scores a try during the Test match against France played at the Loftus Stadium. Photo: KIM LUDBROOK/EPA

Published Jun 12, 2017

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DURBAN – Following an early withdrawal from the field in the Springboks’ 37-14 victory against the French at Loftus, centre Jesse Kriel will not be considered for Saturday’s second Test in Durban.

The Bulls’ No 13 sustained a concussion, and instead of rushing him back into action for the upcoming match, Springbok doctor Konrad von Hagen said they will rest the try-scorer this week.

Kriel will go through the gradual return to play protocols and Springbok coach Allister Coetzee is confident he will be ready for the third and final clash.

There are further issues in in the centres as Stormers No 12 Damian de Allende has not fully recovered from his contusion. De Allende will return back to Cape Town and hopefully gain some match fitness playing for his club.

Damian de Allende Photo: Chris Ricco/BackpagePix

While the Boks are down two centres, Lions outside centre Lionel Mapoe has been given the all clear to play this week. He looks certain to replace Kriel in the No 13 jersey as Coetzee has expressed a desire to keep Jan Serfontein at No 12.

Francois Venter joined up with the Boks for their Monday afternoon practice as a replacement for the injured De Allende. Cheetahs skipper Venter was already in Durban as part of the SA ‘A’ squad to play the French Barbarians.

Venter will be available for the SA ‘A’ team if he is not selected for the Boks’ match-23.

@DarrynJack216

IOL Sport

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