Another Springbok suffers an injury setback

The Springboks are months away from their 2026 season opener. However, coaches are already monitoring a growing injury list. That list includes Pieter-Steph du Toit, Cameron Hanekom, Lood de Jager, and Faf de Klerk.

At the same time, concern remains around veteran prop Frans Malherbe. He has missed most of the past year with a serious back injury.

His recovery has often felt frustrating and uneven. Progress sometimes gives way to new setbacks. Meanwhile, Malherbe will soon turn 35 years old.

Latest update on Malherbe’s recovery

Stormers coach John Dobson recently shared an update. He admitted Malherbe suffered another setback. However, he still believes a return remains possible.

“Frans reminded me very directly he’s doing rehab every day, which he is,” Dobson told reporters.

“He’s made a lot of progress with the neck and the back, but he’s actually just got another setback with his hip. They’re not sure if it’s related.

“He’s not changing direction yet, but he’s running at full speed and that’s normally a month or two. But he’s rehabbing properly. It’s all about the nerve and the pain. He’s not scrumming yet, so he’s not certain. But from the running and his general shape, he’s looking good.”

Therefore, medical staff continue to manage his recovery carefully and conservatively.

Cautious hope for a July return

Despite the setbacks, hope remains for Malherbe’s return before July. The Springbok season starts then with a demanding schedule. Coaches want him fit, but they refuse to rush the process.

The Springboks will open their 2026 campaign against England in Johannesburg.