Massive blow for Coenie
Springbok prop Coenie Oosthuizen has been ruled out of the rest of the series against England with a neck injury.
Oosthuizen, who impressed in his Test debut against England in Durban on Saturday, has a mildly bulging disc in his neck.
According to Springbok team doctor, Dr Craig Roberts, the 23-year-old Oosthuizen should be out of action for between two and three months.
"Coenie needs treatment, rest and rehabilitation and it was decided to withdraw him from the Bok squad for the next two Tests," said Roberts.
"We will follow a conservative approach with Coenie. He is still a young player and has a long career ahead of him and needs to be managed appropriately."
Springbok coach Heyneke Meyer said he was sad to see Oosthuizen leave the squad.
"Coenie has brought a lot of energy to our team and he played a major part in our victory in the first Test, making a big impact when he came on," said Meyer.
"The player's welfare comes first and we decided that it would be best for Coenie to rather get some proper rest and rehabilitation now. Hopefully he’ll be back to full fitness soon. He definitely has a role to play in future."
Dean Greyling replaced Oosthuizen in the Bok squad on Tuesday morning and will remain with the team until the end of the Castle Incoming Tour.
"Dean brings experience to the squad and like Coenie, he is also a loosehead that can play tighthead if needed. He now has an opportunity to show what he can do and he needs to grab it,” said Meyer.
