South Africa provide injury update on Hanekom, Fassi, De Klerk

South Africa’s domestic injury picture has shifted again ahead of the Springboks’ 2026 season, with Cameron Hanekom returning for the Bulls while Aphelele Fassi and Sebastian de Klerk face spells on the sidelines.

Cameron Hanekom Return Boosts Bulls And Springboks

There was encouraging news for the Bulls and the wider Springbok setup with Hanekom returning to action after a lengthy lay-off. The back-row forward is back in contention for the Bulls as the United Rugby Championship enters a decisive phase, giving South Africa another important option ahead of the international season.

Hanekom’s return comes at a valuable time, with the Springboks set to begin their 2026 campaign in just over four months. His comeback will be closely watched as he looks to rebuild momentum before the national team’s opening fixtures.

Sebastian De Klerk Injury Rules Him Out Long Term

The positive Hanekom update has been offset by a major setback for winger de Klerk. The Bulls back has suffered a serious foot injury and is expected to miss the rest of the year.

That timeline is a significant blow both for his franchise and for his hopes of pushing into the Springbok picture during the 2026 season. De Klerk had been viewed as one of the emerging players to watch, but the recovery period now places his immediate rugby future on hold.

Aphelele Fassi Undergoes Shoulder Surgery

There is also concern at the Sharks, where full-back Fassi has undergone shoulder surgery after being injured against the Lions last month. He is expected to be out for about three months.

That recovery window means Fassi could still return in time to enter selection discussions for South Africa’s season opener against the Barbarians at the end of June, provided rehabilitation progresses as expected.