Concussed Kriel ruled out of Durban Test

Cape Town - Springbok centre Jesse Kriel has been ruled out of the second Test against France with a concussion. 

Kriel was substituted in the 57th minute of this past Saturday's 37-14 victory over the same opposition at Loftus Versfeld after he came off second best in a heavy collision with his opposite number, Henry Chavancy.

A groggy Kriel did not return to the field and his place was taken by Bok veteran Frans Steyn, who moved to No 12 while Jan Serfontein shifted outside to No 13. 

The Boks confirmed the news at a press conference on Monday afternoon through team doctor Konrad von Hagen.

It leaves Bok coach Allister Coetzee with limited options in midfield, but he said on Monday that he would likely use the fit-again Lionel Mapoe at No 13 and leave Steyn on the bench.

Damian de Allende, meanwhile, has been released back to the Stormers because he is not fit, while Cheetahs skipper Francois Venter is currently with the SA 'A' side. 

Both Kriel and Serfontein scored tries for the Boks on Saturday. 

Centre Lionel Mapoe has completed his final phase of rehab and returns to full fitness on Monday, Springbok management confirmed on Monday.

— South African Rugby (@Springboks) June 12, 2017

Centre @JesseKriel15 to have a full rest this week and unavailable for selection for second test against France in Durban.

— South African Rugby (@Springboks) June 12, 2017