Dylan Bettencourt
In what has developed into a tense scrum between a former and a current Springbok, Eben Etzebeth responded to Bakkies Botha’s criticism of his time in Toulon.
In a clear klap back message on social media to Botha, Etzebeth said: “Noted. Next time you want to ENFORCE an opinion, you’ve got my number.”
Botha, also a former Toulon player, said that while Etzebeth is the best in the world, he only shows his best for the Springboks.
This came as 30 year-old Etzebeth suffered another injury that will keep him out for a month.
“In Toulon, he is still a little injured, concussed and in the end, never plays,” Botha told French publication Midi Olympique.
Etzebeth recently announced that he will return to South African rugby with the Sharks.
Etzebeth boasts 97 caps for the Springboks and is widely regarded as one of the best rugby players in the world. However, his time in France has been plagued by injuries.
Tensions between the club’s hierarchy and the Springbok rose after Etzebeth was unable to return to action for three months, following a concussion injury he suffered against England last November.
When he finally made his return two weeks ago, Etzebeth suffered a further setback, tearing a muscle in training. This will keep him out of action for a month.
Etzebeth will be hoping for a change in fortune when it comes to domestic rugby when he joins the Sharks in July.
His deal with the Durban outfit runs until 2027, with the Sharks now boasting a total of eight Springboks in their side.
Image source: @SARugbyMagazine
