South Africa's hopes of outmuscling the New Zealand pack in Saturday's Rugby Championship clash in Auckland have been dealt a blow after powerful loose forward Jaco Kriel was ruled out of the game with a shoulder injury.
The dynamic Kriel has been diagnosed with a labrum tear picked up in Saturday's 23-23 draw with Australia in Perth.
The Springbok management have decided against replacing the Lions loose forward in the squad, which will mean Sharks flanker Jean-Luc du Preez will start against the world champions.
It means at least two changes from Bok coach Allister Coetzee from the side that drew with the Wallabies as tighthead prop Coenie Oosthuizen has also been ruled out with a broken arm.
His replacement, uncapped Wilco Louw, joined the squad in Auckland on Monday.
Meanwhile, Springboks flyhalf Pat Lambie has signed a four-year contract with French Top 14 side Racing 92.
Lambie, who has 56 caps for the Boks, secured an early release from his contract with the Sharks' Super Rugby side and will join the Parisian club from November 1, subject to passing a medical.
The 26-year-old has endured a torrid time with injuries in recent years, including two major concussions, the latest in May that left him sidelined for months as he battled with headaches, light sensitivity in his eyes and neck problems.
Lambie's move to France does not affect his availability for the Boks as he has passed the 30-cap threshold for overseas-based players to be eligible for selection.
