Lions lose Ruan Venter for crucial Munster clash as injury stops 'big red machine'
United Rugby Championship
The Lions have been dealt a massive blow ahead of their do-or-die URC clash against Munster, with Ruan Venter ruled out and heading home for scans. Photo: Backpagepix
Image: Backpagepix
The Lions will more than likely be without the services of Ruan Venter this week as they prepare for their final, critical regular-season United Rugby Championship (URC) clash against Munster, coach Ivan van Rooyen revealed on Monday morning.
Venter was carted off the field this past weekend in the Lions’ 31-7 loss to Leinster after only four minutes with a suspected knee injury. He was replaced by Batho Hlekani, who put in a bruising, workmanlike performance during the match. The extent of Venter's injury remains unknown, but the severity should be confirmed later this week.
Van Rooyen said on Monday: “Unfortunately, Venter flew back to South Africa on Sunday night to get scans on that knee.
“We hope it is not horrible news, but he is quite uncomfortable and sore. We will see from that scan what the results will be and what will be needed.
“The rest of the squad at this stage have only bumps and bruises. Luckily, there is nothing major elsewhere.”
Nonetheless, the absence of Venter will be a major loss for the Lions this week as they desperately seek a positive result against Munster. Although currently fifth in the URC standings on 53 points, there remains a danger that the Lions could fall out of the Top 8 and play-off spots of the tournament should they lose badly to Munster and if other results on matchday 18 do not go their way.
The injury could also have a negative impact on Springbok coach Rassie Erasmus’ plans for the July Tests against England, Scotland and Wales.
Venter, 23-years old, has been in fine form for the Joburgers in recent weeks, making big runs on attack while being physically dominant in defence. He has also embraced a utility role within the Lions' squad — an attractive characteristic for Erasmus and Co — switching between blindside flank and lock.
Both the Lions and Boks, therefore, will hope that the injury does not sideline Venter for an extended period and that he will be able to add to his one Test cap in the coming months.
The Lions face Munster at Thomond Park at 8.45pm on Saturday.