Kolbe returns to the Springbok training squad
World Cup-winning wing Cheslin Kolbe has returned to the Springbok training camp in Pretoria to do his rehabilitation under the supervision of the Bok medical staff.
The Springbok coaching staff remain hopeful that Kolbe will have recovered from a “knee niggle” to play some part in the opening Test against Ireland.
The 30-year-old was injured while playing for his Japanese club, Tokyo Sungoliath.
Kolbe, who was named among 35 players for the Boks' first training camp of the year, joined his teammates in camp but was released the next day "to examine the extent of niggle which he picked up during his regular Japanese club season".
South Africa face Wales at Twickenham on June 22.
Then, they will embark on a busy schedule that includes two Tests against Ireland and one against Portugal. They will then embark on the Rugby Championship, which involves six matches against Australia, arch-rivals New Zealand, and Argentina in August and September.
The four-time world champions then take on Scotland, England and Wales during a November tour of Europe.
The match-day squad for the Wales Test will be announced on Tuesday.
