Scarra Ntubeni has been called up to the Springbok squad as a replacement for the injured Robbie Coetzee.

Coetzee has been struggling with a neck injury, and has been unable to train for much of this week in Dublin. On Friday, the Bok management team made the decision to call for a replacement in the 36-man squad.

‘Robbie has been struggling with a pinched nerve in his neck for a few months,’ said team doctor Craig Roberts. ‘It flared up again after our training session on Tuesday afternoon and he was withdrawn from all training for the rest of the week.

‘We also consulted with the Golden Lions medical team and reviewed his scans. After seeking specialist opinions it was decided that, due to his current functional impairment, it was in his best interests for the long-term to withdraw him from the tour.’

Ntubeni has been selected to play for Western Province against Saracens in London on Sunday. Following that fixture, the hooker will link up with the Bok squad. From next week, Ntubeni will provide cover for hookers Bismarck du Plessis and Adriaan Strauss.

Photo: Antoine Antoniol/Getty Images