Botha in doubt for Boks' first pool match
Tuesday 6 September 2011, 6:59PM
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South Africa lock Bakkies Botha is in doubt for Sunday's Rugby World Cup 2011 Pool D match against Wales because of an ankle injury.
A team spokesman said Botha's Achilles tendinosis had flared up, making him the only player in the squad of 30 to be in doubt for selection.
Botha, 32, was a member of the 2007 Rugby World Cup winning side and his aggression and strength are key weapons for South Africa.
Springbok number 8 Pierre Spies said Botha was an important member of the side but if he was unable to play against Wales on 11 September it would not disrupt the team's rhythm.
"Bakkies is a person you always miss - in his special way - but for us it's important to keep the routine of the team going,'' Spies said.
"I think we'll have Danie Rossouw coming in if Bakkies is not ready and Danie is also an exceptional player.
"We'll wait and see how the week turns out and hopefully his foot can recover in time."