Namibia lose four stars

FOUR of Namibia’s established rugby stars have withdrawn from the World Cup squad.

Hooker Hugo Horn, prop Jane du Toit, lock Johannes Theron and fullback Lean van Dyk have been replaced by lock Shaun van Rooi, prop Andries Blaauw, hooker Phillipus Isaacs and fullback Vincent Dreyer.

Under IRB rules, the quartet will not be allowed to play in South Africa’s Currie Cup competition during the World Cup.

“Now we are going to have to hope we don’t have too many injuries because it makes us less competitive,” Namibia’s New Zealand coach Dave Waterston said.

Namibia open their World Cup campaign on October 14 against Argentina.

They also play defending champions Australia, Ireland and Romania