Matfield out of Wales clash

Springbok coach Heyneke Meyer named a team without veteran lock Victor Matfield to face Wales at Twickenham.

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Durban - Springbok coach Heyneke Meyer has remained loyal to performance and named a team without veteran lock Victor Matfield to face Wales in their Rugby World Cup quarterfinal encounter at Twickenham.

The 38-year-old Matfield has not recovered sufficiently from a hamstring strain and his participation for the remainder of the tournament is in doubt.

“Victor was close to selection and trained for the first two days of this week but there is still tightness and soreness on that hamstring and I don’t want to risk him for long term. It will be a gruelling battle and I can’t put someone who is not fit, “ Meyer said at the team announcement press conference.