The world champions may be without the services of the flyhalf Handré Pollard and Lukhanyo Am for the remainder of the year.

The pair both sustained knee injuries during their 25-17 defeat to the Wallabies on 27 August.

The Boks camp has been tight-lipped about the status of their injuries until the coach, Jacques Nienaber, confirmed that they will be side-lined for a lengthy period.

The two players were released to their respective clubs and franchises while still in Australia. Am underwent surgery on his knee, while the status of Pollard’s injury is unknown.

Nienaber said he can't guarantee the pair will be fit for the end-of-year tour.

“I'm not 100% sure in terms of what date their return-to-training and return-to-play would be, said Nienaber.

“I know that they are out for the Rugby Championship. I think that they are out for the end-of-year tour as well.

“I'm not a 100% sure, but I will say that I am 80% sure.”

Meanwhile, on Saturday at 21:10, Argentina will tackle the Springboks in Buenos Aires.

Morgan Piek/OFM Sport