South Africa recall Eben Etzebeth ahead of France Test

Springboks head coach Rassie Erasmus has recalled experienced lock Eben Etzebeth to South Africa's touring squad ahead of Friday's Nations Championship clash against France in Paris.

The 35-year-old returns after recovering from an injury that initially ruled him out of the November tour.

Eben Etzebeth Returns to Springboks Squad

Etzebeth was initially excluded from South Africa's November touring squad after sustaining an injury while representing the Sharks in the United Rugby Championship.

The veteran forward, who has earned 147 Test caps, is South Africa's most-capped player and brings considerable international experience to the squad.

His recall follows an injury concern involving Salmaan Moerat, who was withdrawn from the starting lineup shortly before Saturday's 66–7 victory over Italy in Turin.

Moerat had been troubled by back spasms during the week, with the problem resurfacing during the pre-match warm-up.

Yaqeen Ahmed Withdraws from Nations Championship Tour

Etzebeth has replaced uncapped 20-year-old fly-half Yaqeen Ahmed in the touring squad rather than taking Moerat's place.

Ahmed, who received his first Springboks call-up, was sidelined by a shoulder problem that caused him to miss most of the training sessions ahead of the Italy Test.