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Cape Town - Springbok coach Rassie Erasmus is hopeful that lock Eben Etzebeth will be fit to face Wales in Cardiff on Saturday.
READ: Faf available, but Boks to give Papier another run
Etzebeth missed South Africa's last two Tests against France and Scotland due to a foot injury sustained in their tour-opener against England.
The burly lock will be assessed on Tuesday afternoon to prove his fitness in order for him to be considered for selection.
“Last week I said it was a 50/50 (for him to be ready), I’m a little bit more optimistic this week,” Erasmus told reporters in Cardiff on Tuesday.
The Bok mentor added that Etzebeth would definitely play if he recovers in time.
"It would be a boost - he's a 70-plus capped player who brings a lot of leadership into the team,” Erasmus added.
Meanwhile, there is also uncertainty regarding the fitness of No 8 Warren Whiteley, who missed the Scotland Test due to a calf injury.
More of his availability will be known later in the week.
