Boks have one injury worry, Moerat, ahead of France Test
Springbok coach Rassie Erasmus says lock Salmaan Moerat, who has back spasms, is the only injury concern after the 66-7 win over Italy in Turin.
The Springboks head into their Test against France with just one injury worry, according to The Citizen. Lock Salmaan Moerat was pulled from the team shortly before Saturday’s Nations Championship match against Italy in Turin after suffering back spasms in the warm-up.
Lood de Jager took Moerat’s place in the starting lineup, while Franco Mostert moved onto the bench. The world champions went on to beat Italy 66-7 at the Allianz Stadium.
What Erasmus said about Moerat
Bok coach Rassie Erasmus said Moerat first felt the spasms on Thursday. The team thought the problem would clear up, and the lock looked fine at the captain’s run. In the warm-up, however, the spasms returned.
“There are no other injuries,” Erasmus said after the match. He added that he hopes Moerat’s problem is not too serious, and that he does not think any other player has a serious injury.
Strong start, quieter second half
The Boks scored six tries in the first 40 minutes and led 45-0 after 33 minutes, a lead they took into the break. The second half was scrappier. Italy improved and scored a try, while the Boks added three of their own.
Erasmus said he was not unhappy with the second half. “I think it’s almost impossible to put a 100% performance together over 80 minutes,” he said. He pointed out that his side scored 45 points before the break and 21 after it.
He praised Italy as a proud team that began running the ball from everywhere once they were 45 points behind. He also said the Boks’ own changes cost them some rhythm. “Obviously it wasn’t perfect, but it was proper,” Erasmus said.
What happens next
For supporters following the end-of-year tour, the schedule is tight. The team flew to Paris straight after the Italy match because it is a short week. They play their French hosts in a late game on Friday night.
- Friday night: Test against France in Paris
- Next: the final pool match against Ireland in Dublin
- End of the month: Finals Weekend at Twickenham in London
Whether Moerat will be available for the France match has not been confirmed. Erasmus has said only that he hopes the injury is not serious.
This story is based on reporting by The Citizen.
