Matfield to replace Bekker?

Johannesburg - Springbok kingpin Victor Matfield could be heading for Cardiff today to cover for the injury to lock Andries Bekker ahead of Saturday’s one-off Test against Wales.

Gallery: Boks train in Cardiff

A decision will only be taken this morning, but Matfield has been informed to be on standby as Bekker struggles to shake off an injury he sustained in the Vodacom Super 14 final last weekend.

While he was given the all-clear on Sunday, he has not trained in the two sessions the Boks have had in Cardiff thus far and sources close to the team say Matfield has been asked to ready himself for a possible trip.

Matfield was supposed to have a week off after leading his team to their third Super 14 title in four years, but may be packing his bags sooner than he thinks.

Team doctor Craig Roberts told local media Tuesday that he had high hopes that Bekker would be fit. “He is struggling but we have a lot of time to get him right.”

Springbok coach Peter de Villiers told SuperRugby on Kyknet Monday night he would only make a decision Tuesday night on the fitness of Bekker, as well as Dewald Potgieter and Juan de Jongh, who were also struggling with injuries. That decision seems to be delayed to Wednesday morning when more clarity would be given.

“The three of them are doubtful, but their chance of playing is bigger than not having them,” he told local media Tuesday.