Springbok wing Bryan Habana has been ruled out of contention for selection for Saturday’s Pool D Rugby World Cup 2011 clash against Fiji in Wellington.
Habana sat out training for a second day on Wednesday after receiving a blow to the knee during the 17-16 win over Wales on Sunday. The injury is not serious and he has been sidelined to continue his rehabilitation.
“Bryan could play if needed but we don’t want to take chances,” said Springbok coach Peter de Villiers. “We have a few weeks to go in the tournament and we don’t want to take risks and we have some other great wings in the squad – this is their opportunity, I hope they take it.”
Lock Johann Muller also sat out on training with a tight hamstring on Wednesday but has not been ruled out of contention from selection. He will be assessed nearer to kick off.
Victor Matfield (hamstring) and Jean de Villiers (rib) have already been ruled out of selection for the Springboks’ second match in the pool.
The team for the game will be named at 07h00 on Thursday (local time). The announcement will be broadcast live in South Africa on SuperSport 1 at 21h00, Wednesday evening (SA time).