Injured Springbok centre Bobo out of World Cup

8.30am

CAPE TOWN - Springboks rugby centre Gcobani Bobo has been ruled out of the World Cup after sustaining knee ligament damage during Tuesday's match against Free State, South African officials said today.

The 24-year-old limped off the field midway through the second half of the Bloemfontein match won 45-24 by the Springboks, after suffering pain in the left knee.

"Team doctor Uli Schmidt assessed the injury and decided that Gcobani would not be fit enough to play at the World Cup," Springbok spokesman Anthony Mackaiser said.

"The team management will meet on Thursday to discuss a replacement."

Bobo, who started at second five-eighth in South Africa's last test, against the All Blacks in Dunedin, has been referred to a specialist to ascertain whether he requires surgery.

It is the second time the player has suffered a serious knee injury following similar damage to his right knee while playing for the Cats against the Highlanders during a Super 12 match in 2000.

- REUTERS

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