Ox Nche is poised to play an increasingly vital role for the Springboks following Steven Kitshoff’s severe injury.
The Springbok coaching team and fans are keenly aware of the situation, as Irish club Ulster has announced that prop Steven Kitshoff will return to South Africa after a season-ending knee injury.
Kitshoff sustained the injury during Ulster’s Challenge Cup quarter-final match against Clermont, and following a scan, a specialist has declared him out for the remainder of the URC season.
The two-time World Cup champion will now seek advice from a knee specialist in South Africa to determine a treatment strategy, but the severity of the injury is causing considerable concern.
The Springbok coaches are anxiously waiting to see if Kitshoff will be fit in time for the Test series against the Six Nations champions Ireland in July.
Ox Nche Next Up for Springboks
Should Kitshoff be sidelined for a lengthy period, Ox Nche is likely to assume the starting position as loosehead prop.
Nche, who performed exceptionally alongside Kitshoff at last year’s World Cup, now faces a significant opportunity, especially given the Springboks’ limited options at loosehead.
Versatile players like Trevor Nyakane and Thomas du Toit are available as alternatives, and this situation may also present an opportunity for Gerhard Steenekamp of the Bulls.
Kitshoff to Return to the Stormers
Kitshoff’s injury cuts short his one-season run with Ulster, as he will rejoin the Stormers next season.
“It’s no secret what Cape Town and the Stormers mean to me, so returning home is incredibly exciting,” Kitshoff expressed on the Stormers’ website.
“I’m grateful to Ulster for the wonderful experience in Belfast and their understanding throughout this process. We still have much to accomplish this season.
“From next season, I’ll do everything I can to contribute to the DHL Stormers and hopefully be part of something special again with my friends and family by my side,” he added.
