Match without Kolbe

The upcoming match between the France team and South Africa during the Nations Championship will take place without Cheslin Kolbe, one of the main protagonists from the 2023 World Cup quarter-final between the two nations. The teams will meet for the third time in a few years at the Stade de France on November 13 as part of the Nations Championship.

French team's history with South Africa

The French team, coached by Fabien Galthié, has suffered two defeats at home against South Africa, most notably the painful quarter-final loss in 2023. Kolbe, who had made a significant counter-attack on a conversion kick by Thomas Ramos during that match, will be absent due to injury.

Kolbe's injury timeline

Kolbe, a former player of Toulon and Toulouse, has been in the infirmary since the series of test matches between South Africa and New Zealand. During the third match, he suffered a jaw fracture. According to the coach of the Stormers, he should not return to play before December.

South Africa's squad changes

Kolbe is not among the Springboks selected for this European tour. Other notable absentees include Eben Etzebeth, Andre Esterhuizen, and Handre Pollard.

South Africa's squad list

The South Africa squad list includes the following players: Forwards (20): T. du Toit, Nche, Louw, Mchunu, Porthen, Steenekamp, Marx, Wessels, de Jager, Moerat, Nortje, Norton, Mostert, de Villiers, Kolisi (captain), Hanekom, Tshituka, Wiese, P-S du Toit, van Staden. Backs (17): Reinach, van den Berg, Williams, Ahmed, Feinberg-Mngomezulu, Giliomee, Libbok, de Allende, Kriel, Muller, Moodie, de Klerk, Fassi, Hooker, van der Merwe, Arendse, Willemse.