CARDIFF, Wales — Eben Etzebeth has been called up to join South Africa’s rugby squad for their test match against Wales on Saturday, following an injury to Jean Kleyn.

The announcement of this last-minute change was made on Friday, with Marco van Staden also being included among the substitutes.

“It’s unfortunate for Jean, especially since this would have marked his first match since the Rugby World Cup final last year,” stated Rassie Erasmus, the head coach of the Springboks.

Erasmus went on to highlight van Staden’s qualifications, noting that he is a Rugby World Cup champion who has been with the team throughout the season. He has been actively training with the squad for the entire duration of the tour, making it a sensible choice for him to be placed on the bench.

The lineup for South Africa includes Aphelele Fassi, Cheslin Kolbe, Jesse Kriel, Damian de Allende, Kurt-Lee Arendse, Jordan Hendrikse, and Jaden Hendrikse starting, with Jasper Wiese, Elrigh Louw, and Siya Kolisi serving as the captain among the forwards. Other players in the first team include Franco Mostert, Eben Etzebeth, Wilco Louw, Johan Grobbelaar, and Thomas du Toit.

The reserves consist of Malcolm Marx, Gerhard Steenekamp, Vincent Koch, Marco van Staden, RG Snyman, Cameron Hanekom, Cobus Reinach, and Handre Pollard, providing the team with depth and experience as they prepare for the matchup against Wales.