Cheslin Kolbe will not join the Springboks for the year-end Nations Cup tour after sustaining a double fracture of the jaw during South Africa's 29–24 win over New Zealand at FNB Stadium on September 5, with his return to play date confirmed for December 5.
Kolbe's agent Matt Norton of Roc Nations Sports International disclosed that the severity of the injury — specifically the proximity of the upper fracture to his facial nerves — forced a longer recovery than initially anticipated, requiring the bone to fuse naturally rather than through surgical intervention. Kolbe spent approximately two months consuming blended food through a straw, with doctors permitting only a brief 30-minute window for solid food after the first fortnight.
Stormers Director of Rugby John Dobson confirmed Kolbe will be available from the start of December, with the December 5 URC derby away to the Sharks in Durban pencilled in as his return fixture. Dobson added that Kolbe has been attending team meetings and contributing to match preparations throughout his recovery.
"We can't wait to have him," Dobson said. "The Springboks will miss him on the year-end tour. He may not have been able to eat rare eland, but he got his rest and is raring to go."
South Africa, who lead the South Section of the Nations Cup, face Italy, France and Ireland on tour with a place in the inaugural Final at Twickenham on November 29 at stake.