South Africa centre Esterhuizen ruled out of series decider with Wales

South Africa centre Andre Esterhuizen has been ruled out of Saturday’s series decider against Wales with a broken hand.

The 28-year-old sustained the injury during the Springboks’ 13-12 loss in Bloemfontein over the weekend.

Boks assistant coach Deon Davids confirmed on Monday that Esterhuizen is facing around a month on the sidelines.

However, South Africa were always expected to revert back to the XV that started the first Test, which ended in a dramatic 32-29 victory.

That would see Lukhanyo Am and Damian De Allende recalled as the hosts’ starting midfield combination for the Cape Town showdown.

Esterhuizen is now in a race against time to be fit for South Africa’s opening Rugby Championship match against New Zealand on August 6.