Injury-hit Boks have plenty in reserve, claims former coach

FORMER South Africa coach Carel du Plessis does not believe the country’s current injury woes in key positions is a problem ahead of the British and Irish Lions series that begins next month.

Stormers full-back Conrad Jantjes was yesterday ruled out for the rest of the year after breaking his leg in a Super 14 clash against the Chiefs at the weekend, while his possible replacement, Frans Steyn, has been ruled out for six to eight weeks with a knee injury.

It means Springbok coach Peter de Villiers is almost certain to go into the first Test against the Lions on June 20 with a new number 15.

But Du Plessis, who was in charge of the team when the Lions last toured the country in 1997, believes the current boss should not despair.

“Fortunately, we are well covered in the pack and the backs, it is only fly-half and full-back that is a problem, so it shouldn’t be a big issue.”

Following the retirement of Percy Montgomery after last year’s Tri-Nations, South Africa turned to Jantjes for their year-end tour.

But his absence is not a concern for Du Plessis, who believes the Bulls’ Zane Kirchner and Louis Ludik from the Lions have performed adequately in the ongoing Super 14.

He continued: “There is depth at full-back in South Africa. Louis Ludik has been solid this season and Zane has had a few big games. Frans Steyn would also be an excellent choice.”

Reflecting on the fly-half position, where De Villiers is keen on playing Ruan Pienaar – the Sharks utility-back has just returned from a six-week lay-off – Du Plessis added: “If Ruan and Frans are not 100% fit and ready, it would be wise to select other specialists in the fly-half position.

“Morne (Steyn) and (Peter) Grant have been consistent this season, they know the position and they have enough Super 14 experience. Maybe they could surprise at Test level.”

Meanwhile Australian Rugby Union boss John O’Neill fears only countries boasting formidable economic muscle will host future World Cups after Australia was priced out of the bid to stage either the 2015 or 2019 tournaments.

The ARU today officially withdrew from the tender process to host the 2015 or 2019 World Cup due to the International Rugby Board’s asking price.

The IRB is demanding a guarantee of £80million (€91million) for 2015 and £96million (€109million) for 2019, while asking the host union to foot the bill for all associated costs.