South African prop Trevor Nyakane will miss the rest of the 2019 Rugby World Cup due to a torn calf muscle suffered in the 23-13 defeat against New Zealand on Saturday.
24-year-old prop Thomas du Toit, who plays for South African side Cell C Sharks, has been drafted in as Nyakane’s replacement.
Du Toit had been on standby and was part of the Springboks’ pre-tournament preparations until the squad departed for Japan at the end of last month.
South Africa’s rugby coach Rassie Erasmus lamented the loss of Nyakane but expressed optimism about his replacements.
“It’s very tough on Trevor. He has had a great season and added value whenever he took the field. It’s a blow to him and the team, but it’s also an opportunity for Thomas and for Vincent [Koch] who now have the chance to step up,” Erasmus said.
Springboks forwards coach Matt Proudfoot echoed Erasmus’ sentiments while praising du Toit’s versatility.
“It’s really sad for him. He is a guy who is going to be missed; we wish him well. He has been given instructions to get himself right and who knows what can happen down the track,” Proudfoot said.
“He is a very good ball carrier; he is good over the ball; a good defender and brings lots of energy; he is very powerful on the loosehead side; very strong on the tighthead side so we’ve got great cover in for Trevor.”
Du Toit is expected to link up with the squad in Nagoya later on Tuesday.
South Africa next plays Namibia in Pool B at the City of Toyota Stadium on Saturday.
