Details have emerged about the severity of Cheslin Kolbe’s jaw injury, with the Springboks star revealing just how difficult his recovery has been.
The 32-year-old provided an encouraging update on Tuesday, one month after suffering the injury during South Africa’s Test against New Zealand at FNB Stadium in Soweto.
Kolbe was forced off after just nine minutes of the 29-24 victory after taking a heavy blow while making a defensive tackle inside the Springboks’ 22.
Rassie Erasmus later confirmed that the winger had suffered a broken jaw, ruling him out for the remainder of the Rugby’s Greatest Rivalry series.
South Africa went on to secure a 3-1 series victory over the All Blacks, strengthening their position at the top of the world rankings ahead of the 2027 Rugby World Cup, where they will be aiming to win the tournament for a third consecutive time.
Now, one month into his recovery, Kolbe has revealed that his rehabilitation is progressing well.
"For all those asking and checking in. Half way there before I can finally chew a steak," Kolbe posted on Instagram. "But thank you to everyone for their well wishes! Cannot wait to be back on the field again!"
However, the winger’s recovery has been far from straightforward.
Kolbe revealed that he has spent the past month eating through a straw after having his jaw locked up. Two weeks after suffering the injury, he was given just 30 minutes to eat whatever he wanted before the procedure.
He shared a picture from that meal, with fish and chips and chicken wings spread across the table.
Kolbe also gave fans a glimpse at the stark difference between his meals and those enjoyed by his wife Layla, showing her food alongside his blended-up version.
With another month of recovery still ahead of him, Kolbe appears to be making good progress. However, he still has some way to go before he can return to the rugby field.
