Cheslin Kolbe gives positive update after jaw surgery as Springboks await recovery

Cheslin Kolbe has thanked supporters for their messages after undergoing surgery on his jaw, following the injury that forced him out of South Africa’s third Test in the Greatest Rivalry Series.

The Springboks wing is expected to be unavailable for between two and three months, although there has been no official confirmation of the precise length of his absence.

Kolbe was injured in the ninth minute of the third Test in Soweto. He was forced to leave the field after making a brave tackle on a rampaging Luke Jacobson.

The timing of the injury means Kolbe will not be involved in South Africa’s one-off Test against the Wallabies on 26 September. However, there is hope he could recover in time to feature in the Springboks’ away matches in the Nations Championship in November.

South Africa are due to face Italy, France and Ireland during that part of the season, although Kolbe’s availability will depend on the progress of his recovery from surgery.

Kolbe shared an update on social media after his operation, expressing his appreciation for the support he has received and acknowledging the help of his wife.

“Thank you for all the messages and support,” he wrote on social media.

“Thank you to my wife for flying up to be here too and doing the most.All in God’s hands and purpose. Let’s go, boys!”

The message came after Kolbe underwent an operation earlier this week to address the damage to his jaw. While the projected recovery period is currently estimated at two to three months, the Springboks have not yet provided a confirmed return date.

His absence will be felt by South Africa as they prepare for their next fixture against the Wallabies and look ahead to the November schedule. Kolbe is not expected to play in the September Test, but a return in time for the Nations Championship matches remains a possibility.

In the meantime, Damian Willemse will start at fullback for the Springboks in their final Test against the All Blacks in Baltimore on Saturday.

Kick-off is scheduled for 23:00.

Kolbe’s injury came during a demanding passage of the third Test, when his attempted tackle on Jacobson ended his involvement after only nine minutes. He was subsequently taken from the contest and later required surgery.

For now, the Springboks will continue without one of their key attacking players, while Kolbe begins his recovery and waits to learn whether he can return for the November tour.