Bok stars go under the knife

Double world champion Springboks Jesse Kriel and Faf de Klerk have both undergone surgery while playing in Japan and face a spell on the sidelines.

The veteran backs were part of the Bok team that won the Rugby World Cup in France in October to claim back-to-back titles and an unprecedented fourth Webb Ellis Cup.

Both currently play for Canon Eagles in the Japan Rugby League One and recently underwent operations. Kriel announced his temporary absence for an operation on his right thumb, which has been successful according to his recent Instagram post.

He aims to return for the end of the season, likely making him available for the Boks’ July fixtures against Ireland in the Republic.

“I’ve been struggling with my thumb that I need to go to get repaired and I have to have surgery, so I will be away for a while,” he writes.

“Hopefully I won’t miss too many games and I will be back for the end of the season for a few games. So, I will do my best to recover as fast as possible.”

Meanwhile, De Klerk had knee surgery, with no specified recovery timeline, and expressed disappointment but pledged to work hard for an early return.

“I’m really disappointed that I must receive surgery on my knee but I can’t wait to get back on the field with the Eagles family as soon as possible,” he posted on social media. “I will work really hard, but, ask that everyone please support the team. Arigato.”