Serfontein out for Ireland Tests

Editor

Bulls centre Jan Serfontein has been ruled out of South Africa's Test series against Ireland due to injury.

SA Rugby have confirmed that Springbok centre Serfontein will be out of action for up to four months after scans on Friday revealed that he has sustained a scaphoid fracture.

Serfontein will be managed by a hand specialist in Pretoria who will ensure his rehabilitation.

Springbok coach, Allister Coetzee, confirmed no one would be called up to replace Serfontein as he believes they have enough midfield cover.

"At this point in time it looks like Jan Serfontein could be unavailable for a while," Coetzee told reporters.

"We’re covered with what we have at the moment. We won’t make any rash decisions. JP Pietersen can play there and Pat Lambie can play there. 

"I’m not saying that’s where we’re going but there is enough cover.

"Losing a player like Jan Serfontein is a bit of a setback. You would like to have your best players available but is an opportunity for some other players.

Coetzee also confirmed that Elton Jantjies and Lionel Mapoe wil be fine to play by next Saturday.