Jannie ruled out of Boks outgoing tour

Uncapped Griquas' prop Lourens Adriaanse was named on Wednesday as his replacement.

Adriaanse was a member of the Springbok squad during the Rugby Championship, and was on the official standby list.

Springbok coach Heyneke Meyer said losing a player of Du Plessis' experience and ability was a major blow to the side, but he believed Adriaanse was a capable replacement.

"He's been part of the squad for almost the entire Test season and was one of the unlucky players to miss out on initial selection," Meyer said.

The 30-year-old Du Plessis, who played in his 50th Springbok Test last month against Australia in Cape Town, was ruled out because of a chronic shoulder injury and a hand fracture.

"Jannie went for an MRI scan on his shoulder, while we also reviewed his recent hand injury with his specialist," said Springbok team doctor Craig Roberts. "He will only be ready for the Test against France, and as player welfare is very important to us, we decided not to risk him on this tour."

(File photo:Gallo Images)

- Sapa