Reigning United Rugby Champions, Munster, are facing a significant setback as their Rugby World Cup-winning second-row player, RG Snyman, prepares for surgery on his chest and shoulder area. This latest injury ordeal is just one in a string of unfortunate events for the 28-year-old South African.
Snyman signed a two-year deal with Munster in 2022, set to expire in June 2024. However, his time with the Irish giants has been marred by recurrent injuries. He made his debut against Leinster in August 2020, only to rupture his ACL just seven minutes into the game.
Snake-bitten
Multiple setbacks resulted in Snyman not playing again until September 2021. In his third game back, he suffered another setback, re-rupturing his cruciate ligament during a match against the Scarlets in the United Rugby Championship.
Despite these challenges, Snyman managed to return in March last year and played a crucial role in Munster’s successful United Rugby Championship campaign, primarily as an impact player off the bench.
A most end to 2023
Snyman’s fortunes took a positive turn as he starred for the Springboks, helping them secure their second consecutive Rugby World Cup title last month in Paris. However, his injury struggles continue, and he’s set to undergo surgery in his native South Africa. Unfortunately, no specific timeline has been announced for his return to Munster.
Munster will now have to rely on alternative options, including Snyman’s Springbok teammate Jean Kleyn, Irish international Tadhg Beirne, and promising young talents Edwin Edogbo, Thomas Ahern, and Fineen Wycherley to fill the void in the second row.
This latest injury setback is undoubtedly a tough blow for both the player and the province, especially with Snyman’s contract set to expire in June 2024. It remains to be seen how Munster will adapt to this challenge as they aim to defend their United Rugby Championship title.
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