Springboks call in replacement as injury rules Trevor Nyakane out of World Cup

South Africa have been forced to call-up a replacement player into their World Cup squad following a tournament ending injury to prop Trevor Nyakane.

Thomas du Toit was en route from France to Nagoya, Japan, on Monday after being called up as an injury replacement to the Springbok Rugby World Cup squad.

The 24-year-old Sharks prop, who has 10 test caps to his name, replaces the unfortunate Nyakane, who tore his right calf in the 23-13 defeat to the All Blacks in Yokohama on Saturday night.

A statement provided by South Africa Rugby didn't disclose exactly how long Nyakane will be out of action for.

Du Toit, who was on a short-term loan to Top 14 club Toulouse, was on standby and had been involved in preparations right up until the team’s departure for Japan.

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He is expected to join the squad in Nagoya on Tuesday afternoon, and will be one of five props alongside fellow tighthead Vincent Koch, Tendai Mtawarira, Frans Malherbe and Steven Kitshoff.

“It’s very tough on Trevor,” said South Africa head coach Rassie Erasmus.

“He has had a great season and added value whenever he took the field. It’s a blow to him and the team, but it’s also an opportunity for Thomas and for Vincent [Koch] who now have the chance to step up.”

The Springboks continue their Rugby World Cup campaign against African neighbours Namibia at Toyota Stadium in Toyota on Saturday.

Kick-off is at 6:45pm local time.

- With South Africa Rugby

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