SA Schools prop Banele Mthenjane and flyhalf Lionel April have been ruled out of the international series due to injury.

Mthenjane, a Nelspruit High pupil, was set to make his second appearance in the SA Schools squad and was one of three players who featured for the side in 2017. Hermanus High student April starred for Boland during the U18 Craven Week, and received his first call-up to the squad.

In their places come Sharks U18 prop Thabiso Mdletshe, from Glenwood High, and centre Lwandile Menze, a DHS pupil.

This brings Glenwood’s representation in Sean Erasmus’ squad to three, while there are now two players from DHS.

‘It’s always tough to lose players before a ball has even been kicked, but unfortunately, these things happen and we feel for Banele and Lionel,’ said Erasmus, whose team started with their preparations on Sunday in Stellenbosch.

‘At the same time, this provides a wonderful opportunity for Thabiso and Mzwandle, and I’ve been impressed with their zeal and positive attitude,’ Erasmus added.

The team kick off their campaign on Friday against Wales at Boland Landbou, after England take on France.

Photo: Shaun Roy/Gallo Images