South Africa's Rugby Championship clash against New Zealand is in jeopardy as star lock Eben Etzebeth has been ruled out due to injury, further depleting the Springboks' second-row options. With long-term injuries already sidelining Lood de Jager, Franco Mostert, and Jean Kleyn, the team also confirmed that RG Snyman and Salmaan Moerat will miss the match. Forwards coach Deon Davids indicated that Etzebeth's injury is a 'niggle', and his absence would be a significant setback for the Springboks, especially given the historic rivalry following their recent World Cup win over the All Blacks. Ruan Nortje is set to step into the second-row alongside Pieter-Steph du Toit, while French-based Nicolaas Janse van Rensburg has been called up as a potential replacement. Despite the injury crisis, the remainder of the team is expected to be strong as they aim to secure their third consecutive win in the tournament.