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Springboks call up evergreen Fourie for All Blacks series as Kolisi concerns persist

Deon Fourie has not played for the Springboks since the 2023 Rugby World Cup final
Deon Fourie has not played for the Springboks since the 2023 Rugby World Cup finalMATTHIEU MIRVILLE / MATTHIEU MIRVILLE / DPPI VIA AFP

South Africa have recalled 39-year-old ⁠utility forward Deon Fourie for Rugby’s Greatest Rivalry series ‌against New Zealand, almost three years ‌after he starred in ‌the 12-11 final win at ‌the 2023 Rugby World Cup ‌against the All Blacks.

Fourie, who can cover both hooker ‌and loose-forward, has not ⁠played a ‌test since coming on early in ​Paris following an injury to Bongi Mbonambi, ​but was excellent for the Stormers in their 38-21 defeat ⁠by ​New Zealand on Friday.

That match was his first back from long-term injury and his work-rate ‌drew praise from Stormers coach John Dobson.

"An incredible performance for a guy who’s again coming back from a serious injury. He’s almost 40. He made three tackles in 15 seconds, and two ‌of them were try-saving," ​Dobson told reporters.

Fourie's inclusion could be as cover for Springbok captain Siya Kolisi, who limped out of Saturday's win over Argentina with a recurrence of his hamstring issue that has thrown his series against New Zealand in serious doubt. 

The Springboks play ‌New Zealand in three home tests starting on August 22 in Johannesburg, with a fourth in Baltimore in ⁠the ⁠United States.

The All Blacks are embarking upon their first full tour of South Africa since 1996! Marketed as the 'Greatest Rivalry' series, the winner will come out not only with the bragging rights but World Rugby's number one ranking. Keep up to date throughout August and September with news, previews and more. 

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