Sharks’ Coach John Plumtree Faces an Injury Crisis As Eben Etzebeth Joins the List of Wounded Stars
- Springbok enforcer Eben Etzebeth only played the first half over the weekend after picking up a rib injury against Edinburgh on Saturday, 30 March 2024
- Coach John Plumtree is awaiting the severity of Etzebeth's injury as the side prepares for an EPCR Challenge Cup knockout match on Sunday, 7 April
- Plumtree says Etzebeth is in pain while he waits for Vincent Koch, Emile van Heerden, and Vincent Tshituka's fitness tests
Source: Getty Images
Eben Etzebeth faces time on the sidelines after picking up a rib injury during the Sharks' 23-13 victory over Edinburgh on Saturday, 30 March 2024.
The Bok enforcer left the field after the first half, and coach John Plumtree voiced his concerns as the list of injured stars continued to grow at the Natal side.
Eben Etzebeth is in pain, says coach John Plumtree
Sharks await the extent of Etzebeth's injury, as confirmed by the tweet below:
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Speaking to Sport 24, Plumtree said they are awaiting further tests to determine how long the SA Rugby Player of the Year will sit on the sidelines.
Plumtree said:
"We’re not quite sure yet how serious the injury is. It’s quite sore.”
Etzebeth, who is in line for the Bok captaincy, could miss the Sharks' round of 16 match against Zebre in the EPCR Challenge Cup on Sunday, 7 April 2024.
Plumtree is proud of his players
While Etzebeth's injury is a significant knock for the Sharks, Plumtree said he is proud of his players after they won their second consecutive game.
“There was alot going on in that game, and the boys handled it really well. The boys didn’t panic and adjusted to what was going on.”
The Natal side also awaits fitness tests for Vincent Koch, Emile van Heerden and Vincent Tshituka.
Bok coach Rassie Erasmus receives a top honour from NWU
As reported by Briefly News, Springbok coach Rassie Erasmus will receive an honorary doctorate from the North Western University.
The World Cup winner said NWU's decision humbled him while he thanked the Springbok staff and players for helping him achieve the honour.
Source: Briefly News
