“After specialist advice" - Eben Etzebeth will be forced to step down from rugby - Ruck

“After specialist advice” – Eben Etzebeth will be forced to step down from rugby

South Africa’s World Cup-winning lock Eben Etzebeth will spend the next three months on the sidelines.

Toulon, where the lock is contracted, revealed in a statement that the Springbok star has been ‘stood down’ in compliance with the “concussion protocol”.

The 30-year-old suffered his third concussion in a year during South Africa’s 26-27 loss to England in their year-end international at Twickenham last week

“After specialist advice and in accordance with the concussion management protocol of the National Rugby League, the player must observe a three-month break,” Toulon said in a statement.

“Rugby Club Toulonnais wishes Eben Etzebeth a speedy recovery.” the French outfit added.”

The veteran second row forward, capped 97 times by the Boks, played 245 minutes in South Africa’s three year-end Tests.

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Four England players included in The Telegraph’s World XV

The Telegraph have named their World XV following the conclusion of the 2021 Autumn Nations Series.

#BACK-THREE

  • 15. Freddie Steward (England)
  • 14. James Lowe (Ireland)
  • 11. Will Jordan (New Zealand)

THEY WROTE: “What a talent. Already looks like a 50-capper at a minimum for England and with his frame and confidence under the high ball is proving to be a huge asset.”

Freddie Steward of England goes over for a try during the Autumn Nations Match between England and Australia at Twickenham on 13 November 2021. Photo: Micah Crook/PPAUK

#CENTRES

  • 13. Henry Slade (England)
  • 12. Damian de Allende (South Africa)

THEY WROTE: “Slade came into the autumn in good form for Exeter and has kicked on now at Test level, producing a superb passing display against South Africa. England’s key architect in their win over the world champions.”

Henry Slade of England kicks the conversion during the Autumn Nations Match between England and Tonga at Twickenham Stoop on 6 November 2021. Photo: Tom Sandberg/PPAUK

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