Defending champions South Africa have called up Jean Deysel into their World Cup training squad to provide cover for a number of injury worries to their forwards. The Sharks' back-row has been handed the call following niggling injuries to Juan Smith, Schalk Burger, Willem Alberts and Duane Vermeulen. Those following Rugby World Cup 2011 odds will be keeping a close eye on South Africa's injury problems.
A statement from the South Arican Rugby Union confirmed the news of Deysel's call-up.
"Sharks loose-forward Jean Deysel has been added to the Springbok training squad in Cape Town because of injuries. Deysel joined the group on Wednesday," it said.
26-year-old Deysel earned his first cap for the Springboks in 2009 against Italy but has often found his path to the national team blocked by the large number of quality players in his position. Now the Sharks man will have the chance to impress Peter de Villiers in the run up to the World Cup, which starts in September. First up though for South Africa will be the unfortunately timed Tri-Nations, which this year will be played just weeks before the season showpiece in New Zealand.
The SARU were also quick to play down reports that Stormers defensive coach Jacques Nienaber has joined the Springboks' coaching staff for the World Cup. Nienaber has been working with the squad on a short-term basis but the SARU have confirmed he will be returning to the Stormers in time for their Currie Cup campaign.
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