Overview
- Toyota Verblitz confirmed the Springbok forward will undergo surgery in South Africa and that his Japan Rugby League One registration has been suspended.
- The club described the injury as long-term without disclosing specific details and said he will be sidelined for an extended period.
- The blow comes soon after his first club appearance in 587 days on 13 December against Honda Heat, following a missed season with a serious shoulder injury.
- Verblitz sit 10th with one win from five under coach Ian Foster, with Steve Hansen serving as director of rugby.
- His absence raises questions over selection for South Africa’s mid-year schedule, including the new Nations Championship and a four-Test series against the All Blacks.