Springbok captain Siya Kolisi has chosen to play in Saturday’s match against the All Blacks at Cape Town Stadium despite suffering a nasal fracture, Cape {town} Etc reports.
Also read: Kolisi fit to lead Boks as Rassie makes seven changes for All Blacks clash
Springboks Coach Rassie Erasmus shared this decision during Thursday’s team announcement at the Cullinan Hotel. Kolisi had the option to either have his nose quickly treated and miss three weeks of action or to play through the injury and have it reset in two weeks.
Kolisi injured his nose during last week’s 31-27 victory over the All Blacks at Ellis Park when his head collided with Sam Cane’s shoulder.
The team will see five changes from the previous match, including a switch in the forwards, where Ben-Jason Dixon is replaced by Eben Etzebeth and Pieter-Steph du Toit returns to the flank.
Find your perfect set of wheels with these incredible deals on cars for under 100k. Find car listings here.
Erasmus explained Kolisi’s options: ‘He has two options: it can either be reset because he has a nose fracture and, if he gets it placed back, he’ll be out for three weeks. The doctor said he can also wait for two weeks, but when you look at the massive nature of this game, it’s not just about the Rugby Championship and the All Blacks, it’s a big game and everybody wants to play in that game. However, Siya wanted the option of playing and getting his nose reset in two weeks’ time.’
Despite the injury, Kolisi did not hold back in training. Erasmus recounted the discussion with Kolisi after the scans:
‘The question was to Siya on Sunday after the scans were done: “Are you going to be half-hearted when you go into contact because your nose is sore, your cheekbone is blown out?” He said, “let’s go.”’
Erasmus noted that Kolisi participated fully in training sessions this week, even though there was a risk of further injury.
Erasmus humorously added, ‘He might end up looking like Kwagga Smith,’ acknowledging the potential for Kolisi’s injury to affect his appearance on the field.
Cape {town} Etc discount: Looking for things to do in the city, at half the price? Get exclusive offers here.
Also read:
SA v NZ: Expect traffic disruptions when all roads lead to DHL Stadium
Picture: Dirk Kotze / Gallo Images