Springbok lock makes long awaited return

NEWS: World Cup winner Jean Kleyn is set to return to the pitch for the first time since November 2023 after recovering from an eye injury.

Kleyn is yet to play a match in 2024 after sustaining an injury to his eye playing for Munster against Leinster shortly after returning from the Springboks’ World Cup triumph in France – where he played the last 20 minutes of the Final.

There were concerns around Kleyn’s injury possibly being career-ending as the severity of it increased as the season progressed.

Following an injury update by Munster on Monday, the former URC champions revealed that Kleyn is back in full training ahead of their first clash against Connacht on Saturday.

This is a great boost for Munster and the Springboks who currently has a mini lock crisis, albeit with depth in that position many other nations can only envy.

The Springboks are also without the services of Franco Mostert (broken leg), RG Snyman (foot injury) and Lood de Jager (shoulder).

With two remaining matches in the Rugby Championship – the Springboks are in the driver seat on top of the standings.

The likelihood that Kleyn will link up with the national side are slim as the Springboks will conclude their campaign on September 28 in Nelspruit.

That being said, the former Ireland international can make a push to make the Springbok squad for the November internationals where they’ll face Scotland, England and Wales.

Josh Raisey

@rugbypass