Springbok scrum-half Cobus Reinach undergoes surgery on groin hernia

By SABC Sport
3rd February 2026

Stormers and Springbok scrumhalf Cobus Reinach is set for a spell on the sidelines after undergoing surgery to address a groin hernia.

The 34-year-old confirmed the procedure via social media, sharing a photo from a hospital bed on X and Instagram with the caption: "Quick pit stop. Everything went well! Back in a bit." It has since emerged that the operation was planned and timed to coincide with the current break in both the Vodacom United Rugby Championship (URC) and Investec Champions Cup competitions.

Reports indicate the surgery was successful, although neither the Stormers nor Reinach have confirmed a precise recovery timeline. Players typically require between four and six weeks to return to action following a groin hernia operation, placing his availability for upcoming fixtures in doubt.

Reinach could miss the Stormers' next matches, including away clashes against the Lions and Bulls. However, he may potentially return in time for their Round 13 encounter against the Dragons, depending on his rehabilitation progress. The Cape Town-based side resume URC action on 28 February with a trip to Johannesburg to face the Lions.

His absence would represent a significant setback for coach John Dobson's squad. Since returning to South Africa last year following successful spells with Northampton Saints and Montpellier, Reinach has provided leadership, sharp service at the base of the ruck and valuable tactical management. The two-time Rugby World Cup winner has also played an important mentoring role for younger players within the squad.

Should Reinach be unavailable, the Stormers are expected to rely on backup scrumhalves Imad Khan and Stefan Ungerer to fill the void.

Reinach's injury also adds to a growing list of Springbok concerns. Frans Malherbe and Cameron Hanekom remain in rehabilitation but are targeting returns before the conclusion of the URC season. Meanwhile, Pieter-Steph du Toit, Lood de Jager and Faf de Klerk are all dealing with serious injuries that are expected to keep them sidelined for at least several months.