New Zealand’s rugby injury toll has worsened on its tour of South Africa before the test series has even begun, with winger Caleb Clarke ruled out after rupturing a shoulder tendon during a 54-0 win against the Sharks in Durban, according to the All Blacks.
All Blacks Squad Depth Tested by Growing Injury List
Clarke is the third player to leave the tour early. “I am gutted to be going home because I’ve loved my time here so much,” Clarke said in a statement.
Coach Dave Rennie stated he is comfortable that the remaining six outside backs provide enough cover, and Clarke will not be immediately replaced, according to the team. However, the squad’s depth faces a severe test with other key players sidelined or managing niggles ahead of the first test against the Springboks on Saturday, August 22, at Ellis Park in Johannesburg, as noted by the Cape Times.
Previous Tour Setbacks and Roster Changes
Before the latest blow to Clarke, the All Blacks lost outside-centre Billy Proctor to a fractured shoulder blade and hooker George Bell to a calf injury sustained in training before the match against the Stormers, according to the team. Bradley Slater was brought in to replace Bell, while Richie Mo’unga replaced Proctor.
Additional pressure mounts as outside back Will Jordan deals with a back injury that puts his status for the first test in doubt, and star scrum-half Cam Roigard is also struggling with a calf issue, according to the Cape Times. Despite these disruptions, the All Blacks face the Bulls in their third tour match at Loftus Versfeld on Saturday.
Springboks Preparation and Captaincy Concerns
While the visitors grapple with roster attrition, the Springboks face their own fitness questions regarding captain Siya Kolisi. Kolisi suffered a recurrence of a hamstring strain during a one-off test match against Argentina in Buenos Aires, according to the Cape Times.
Even so, South Africa expects the return of several stalwarts. Locks Eben Etzebeth and Lood de Jager, along with star flyhalf Sacha Feinberg-Mngomezulu, came through the Argentina match unscathed and are expected to feature in the opening test against New Zealand, the Cape Times reported.
Did You Know?
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is Caleb Clarke leaving the All Blacks tour?
Caleb Clarke ruptured a shoulder tendon during the 54-0 victory against the Sharks in Durban and requires surgery, according to the All Blacks.
Who are the other players ruled out for New Zealand?
Outside-centre Billy Proctor (fractured shoulder blade) and hooker George Bell (calf injury) were previously ruled out and sent home, as reported by the team.
When and where is the first test between the Springboks and All Blacks?
The first test is scheduled for Saturday, August 22, at Ellis Park in Johannesburg, according to the Cape Times.
Will Caleb Clarke be replaced in the squad?
No, coach Dave Rennie indicated he will not immediately replace Clarke, expressing confidence in the remaining six outside backs, according to the All Blacks.
Want to stay updated on the latest international rugby developments? Subscribe to our newsletter or explore our site for more in-depth match coverage and team updates.