/ 10 June 2005

Big injury setback for Springbok wing

Ashwin Willemse’s rugby career hangs in the balance after receiving the news that he has to undergo reconstructive surgery on his troublesome right ankle.

Beeld reported on Friday that the 23-year-old Springbok wing will be out of action for at least six months. If the operation and the subsequent rehabilitation programme is successful, Willemse will only make his comeback for the Cats in next season’s Super 14 campaign.

”It is a serious thing and a big setback for me,” said Willemse.

”But, at the same time, it is also a good thing because now it will be known what precisely is wrong with the ankle. I’m now waiting to hear when I will be operated on.”

Lions coach Frans Ludeke — also the man favoured to take over the Cats coaching position — agreed with Willemse, saying it is a huge blow for the Bok flyer’s career.

Andy Turner, head of the Golden Lions Rugby Union, said his union will fully support Willemse in the troubled times that lie ahead. — Sapa