South Africa's Makazole Mapimpi applauds supporters following the Rugby World Cup 2023, Pool B match at the Matmut Atlantique Stadium, France.
PARIS - Makazole Mapimpi’s 2023 Rugby World Cup has come to a sudden end.
READ: World Cup 'waiting game' for South Africa after Tonga victory
The Springboks have confirmed Mapimpi has suffered an injury in South Africa’s 49-18 win over Tonga on Sunday night.
Mapimpi is reported to have fractured his eye socket and cheekbone.
The injury is apparently similar to the one suffered by France captain and star scrumhalf Antoine Dupont, who had to undergo surgery.
His departure might see Jesse Kriel taking his position, who has been outstanding at number 13 and was again introduced as a replacement against Tonga.
However, this could also open the door for the return of Mapimpi’s Sharks teammate and fellow 2019 World Cup hero Lukhanyo Am.
South Africa are on a two-week break as they await a final outlook of Pool B, which will be decided on Friday when hosts, France take on Italy.
Rassie Erasmus is happy with the #Springboks' position after the #RWC2023 pool phase, but reveals that Makazole Mapimpi's tournament is over - more here: https://t.co/N5gIAZybsq 😔#StrongerTogether pic.twitter.com/QOHAe7vtIR
— Springboks (@Springboks) October 2, 2023