Injury opens Springboks door: Roos and Hanekom compete for Wiese’s No 8 spot

THE revelation that incumbent Springbok No 8 Jasper Wiese is likely out for some of the 2025 international season is unfortunate, but the silver lining is that Rassie Erasmus has a good opportunity to examine the pecking order in the position.

- MIKE GREENAWAY

The Bok coach has said that 2025 is the most important year for the Boks in terms of testing depth in the build-up to the 2027 World Cup.

The neck injury suffered by Wiese opens the door for leading contenders such as Stormers star Evan Roos and Cameron Hanekom of the Bulls to solidly state their case.

Wiese confirmed via a statement from his Japanese club, Urayasu D-Rocks, that his club season is history.

“I have to return to South Africa to get an operation on my neck,” Wiese said.

“Unfortunately, I won’t be able to play again this season, but please, your support means the world to us... I appreciate it, and for the team, all the best for the season. Thank you.”

Erasmus has this season lost Steven Kitshoff to a career-ending neck injury and Bulls loose forward Elrigh Louw won't play this year because of ruptured knee ligaments.