Springbok scrumhalf stocks take another blow as Morne van den Berg ruled out

Coach Ivan van Rooyen confirmed on Friday that the Lions livewire went under the knife to mend a bicep injury this week and faces up to six months on the sidelines. Joining him in hospital was destructive flanker Ruan Venter, who injured his knee.

"Both Krappie and Ruan were operated on Wednesday," confirmed van Rooyen.

"Their [respective] operations went well. Unfortunately, both of them are out for quite a bit.

"Krappie might be out for four to six months, which is a big blow. Ruan will be out approximately between six and nine months."

Apart from being a massive blow for the Lions ahead of their maiden United Rugby Championship quarterfinal against the formidable Leinster, van den Berg's injury will further test the depth of Boks at No.9.

Cobus Reinach suffered a severe medial cruciate ligament injury in late April and is on track for a return in late July at best. 

Speedster Grant Williams has a recurring neck issue and hasn't featured for the Sharks since March and fellow teammate Jaden Hendrikse was not part of the recent Bok alignment camp and has been out of form since his concussion in February.

But as a result, the stars could be aligning for the red-hot Embrose Papier. The Bulls star has been in electric form of late and may get to resurrect his international career in this time of opportunity. 

Another player standing to gain is former Junior Springbok star Haashim Pead, who has been earmarked for greatness since his World Rugby Junior World Championship efforts, while two-time World Cup winner Faf de Klerk could also be thrust back into the mix after his recent invitation to the Springbok alignment camp.

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