Boks set for double boost

Springbok lock Victor Matfield and wing JP Pietersen are likely to feature in the World Cup quarter-final against Wales, reports JON CARDINELLI in London.

Matfield has missed the last two matches of the World Cup campaign due to a hamstring strain. Pietersen was unavailable for the final pool match against the USA because of a minor knee injury.

The good news is that both are on the mend and should be available for the do-or-die match at Twickenham on Saturday. The Boks will certainly need all the experience they can get in a clash of this nature.

‘We will have to see how Victor comes through training this week,’ said team doctor Craig Roberts. ‘JP’s knee has settled nicely and we will also be monitoring him over the next couple of sessions.

'I'm confident they will come through. Effectively, we should have a full squad from which to choose for Saturday’s game.’

Matfield said he should be fit to face Wales this weekend.

‘I’ve been frustrated this past week, I thought I would be back [for the match against the USA],’ said Matfield. ‘But the hamstring has been feeling a lot better over the past few days. I’m positive about playing a part in the coming game.'

Photo: Stu Forster/Getty Images

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