South Africa suffer Damian Willemse blow ahead of final round of Rugby Championship

South Africa will miss the services of fly-half Damian Willemse for the final round of the Rugby Championship to be played at Hollywoodbets Kings Park on Saturday.

Willemse, who kicked a conversion and a penalty in the previous game against the Pumas is recovering from a concussion that he sustained during the game which they went on to win 36-20.

Head coach Jacques Nienaber has released Joseph Dweba, Warrick Gelant, Elrigh Louw and Salmaan Moerat from the squad to their respective clubs.

Sbu Nkosi, who recovered from an ankle injury has been recalled along with Kurt-Lee Arendse, who has served his suspension period.

Despite Handre Pollard and Willemse's absence, Nienaber has decided against recalling Elton Jantjies, who was sent home from the trip of Argentina following reports of an alleged affair with the team's dietician even though both have denied the news.

“We have been pretty unlucky on wing in the last few months in terms of injuries, which has forced our hand at giving players such as Kurt-Lee and Canan (Moodie) a chance at international level, and we are pleased with the depth we are now building as we get closer toward the Rugby World Cup next year,” said Nienaber.

“Kurt-Lee had a great debut and played very well against the All Blacks, but he was unfortunately banned, and we are delighted to have him back as he’s a very talented player.

“Sbu has been in our system for several years now and he has recovered from injury, so we are excited to welcome him back. He has shown his class in several big matches, and he brings experience, so he will undoubtedly add great value to the squad.

“This also allows us an opportunity to take stock of the depth we have at wing as we are now a year out from the Rugby World Cup in France.”

South Africa are positioned second in the Rugby Championship table but they have the same points as the top placed All Blacks, who will be taking on Australia in the final game.