Ivan van Rooyen has confirmed that Ruan Venter will not return until early next year, with the loose forward continuing his rehabilitation from the complex knee injury he sustained against Leinster in May. Surgery revealed damage to his ACL, MCL and meniscus, and van Rooyen offered no indication of a return before the new year.
The update came after the Lions' 35-19 win over the Ospreys at Ellis Park, a match the coaching staff were otherwise able to navigate without further significant injuries — though Ruan Delport underwent an HIA following a high tackle from Dan Edwards.
Angelo Davids returned to full training last week for the first time since his injury, with van Rooyen indicating a decision on his availability would be made early this week. Bronson Mills is training at full intensity but has not yet been cleared for selection, though van Rooyen noted significant improvement over the past 10 days and left open the possibility of a return beyond November if his progress continues. Daniel Kasende remains some way off a return.
Henco van Wyk was withdrawn from the Ospreys matchday squad after presenting with concussion symptoms on Wednesday or Thursday of last week.