Injured Trevor Nyakane replaced by Thomas du Toit

Adam Kyriacou

South Africa have suffered a blow after tighthead prop Trevor Nyakane was ruled out for the remainder of the Rugby World Cup due to a calf injury. 

He has been forced to withdraw from the Springboks group currently competing in Japan and is replaced in the 31-man squad by Thomas du Toit.

“It’s very tough on Trevor,” said Boks head coach Rassie Erasmus. “He has had a great season and added value whenever he took the field.

“It’s a blow to him and the team, but it’s also an opportunity for Thomas and for Vincent (Koch), who now have the chance to step up.”

Like Nyakane, Du Toit is able to play on both sides of the scrum and has 10 caps to his name to date. He will join the squad on Monday.

South Africa’s second Pool B match sees them take on Namibia at the City of Toyota Stadium on Saturday.