Springboks dealt Siya Kolisi injury blow ahead of Greatest Rivalry Tour

Springboks captain Siya Kolisi left the field in the 24th minute of their encounter with Argentina in Buenos Aires on Sunday, leaving him in doubt for Rugby’s Greatest Rivalry Tour.

Kolisi, who started at No.6 for Rassie Erasmus’ side against Argentina in their friendly, was replaced during the first half, holding his hamstring.

With the Greatest Rivalry Tour starting in less than two weeks, Kolisi will be battling the clock to start the first Test against the All Blacks at Ellis Park.

Erasmus’ side held on to overcome a spirited Argentina side, 17-10, in preparation for what’s to come in August and September.

Kolisi made three tackles and five carries in his 24-minute performance, before being replaced by Marco van Staden.

In the post-match interview, the Springboks captain explained how he was feeling after the narrow victory.

“I hurt my hamstring again, unfortunately. So I’ll go for a scan and see how far it is,” the 103 Test veteran said.

“But yeah, it’s really tough. But I can’t be sad about it. There’s nothing I can do now than to go and have a scan and then see how long I’m out for.”

Kolisi admitted that the Argentina Test was great preparation ahead of the four-Test series against the All Blacks.

“Yeah, there’s a lot of guys who had opportunities, but there’s also some guys who are injured as well. But yeah, we’re looking forward to the upcoming games.

“It’s going to be really tough, but this was great preparation for that, and also we wish Argentina well for the games that are coming up, and also the people of Argentina have always been amazing to us.

“The way they respect us, they love us and welcome us. They love the rugby, and they support the Pumas, but they always show so much love to us as a team. So thank you to them and all the best for the rest of the couple of games.”