The Sharks, Bulls and Stormers all secured valuable wins, but the results came at a cost, with Springbok coach Rassie Erasmus now monitoring developments as he prepares to announce his squad for the upcoming international campaign.

Among the biggest concerns are injuries to Springbok captain André Esterhuizen, experienced flyhalf Handré Pollard and versatile forward Deon Fourie, with the extent of their respective injuries still to be determined.

The Bulls have confirmed that Pollard has undergone a scan after suffering a hamstring complaint. His availability will depend on the results of the assessment.

The experienced pivot played a pivotal role in South Africa's Rugby World Cup triumphs in 2019 and 2023, and his composure, tactical awareness and goal-kicking ability make him a valuable option for Erasmus.

The Bulls are also managing several other injury concerns ahead of their next URC encounter against the Scarlets.

Deon Fourie - Morgan Piek

Canan Moodie has returned to training under the head injury assessment (HIA) protocols but will not be considered for selection this week. Cheswill Jooste has undergone surgery for a broken cheekbone and faces a mandatory two-week stand-down following a concussion against Ulster, while centre Sango Xamlashe will also miss out after completing the required concussion protocols.

Scrumhalf Embrose Papier is recovering from ankle surgery and faces several weeks on the sidelines, while Thaakir Abrahams is expected to return from a hamstring injury within a week.

The Sharks also emerged from their 36-21 bonus-point victory over Cardiff Rugby with significant injury concerns.

Esterhuizen sustained a right ankle injury, while Phatu Ganyane injured his right elbow and Jurenzo Julius suffered a right hamstring injury. All three are returning to South Africa for scans and consultations with specialists to establish the severity of their injuries.

Esterhuizen's condition will be of particular interest to the Springbok management. The powerful centre has become an important figure in South Africa's midfield, offering physicality, leadership and versatility.

André Esterhuizen - Morgan Piek

The Sharks have called up Cameron Dawson, Litelihle Bester and Suleiman Hartzenberg as replacements ahead of Saturday's final tour match against Munster in Ireland.

Meanwhile, the Stormers produced an entertaining 52-40 victory over the Scarlets at the Cape Town Stadium, but their high-scoring success was overshadowed by a series of injuries.

The Cape side lost all three players capable of covering hooker, forcing the match to continue with uncontested scrums.

André-Hugo Venter - Morgan Piek

Springbok hooker André-Hugo Venter left the field in the first half with an elbow injury that coach John Dobson described as potentially serious. Replacement hooker Lukhanyo Vokozela subsequently failed a head injury assessment, while veteran forward Fourie was forced off with a hamstring complaint. Fourie's experience and versatility make him a valuable member of the Stormers squad, although it remains unclear how long he could be sidelined.

Loose forward Hacjivah Dayimani will also miss the following weekend's clash against Ulster, while prop Ntuthuko Mchunu appeared to sustain a shoulder injury.

There was better news regarding scrumhalf Cobus Reinach and wing Seabelo Senatla, who both passed their head injury assessments. Reinach returned to the field, while Senatla was expected to be available for the next match.

Cheslin Kolbe is doubtful following his jaw fracture against the All Blacks - X

With the Springboks preparing for another demanding international campaign, Erasmus will be hoping that the latest setbacks prove less serious than initially feared.

No players should be ruled out before the necessary medical assessments are completed, but the growing injury list highlights the physical demands of the URC and the importance of squad depth.

South Africa's strength has long been its ability to call on quality replacements. However, with several key players facing uncertain fitness prospects, Erasmus will be hoping for positive medical updates before finalising his touring squad.

Morgan Piek OFM Sport