Du Toit a 'big loss' for Boks

Du Toit, who has been plagued with injuries since making his international debut in 2013, suffered a grade two hamstring tear in the Stormers 31-24 win over the Cheetahs last weekend and has been ruled out of action for between two and six weeks.

Van Graan on Tuesday said that although the lock's injury is "not a long-term one", Du Toit was still a big part of the team's plans heading into the first Test against Ireland.

"I believe Pieter-Steph [du Toit] will develop into one of the best locks in the world," said Van Graan.

"He was pretty unlucky to get injured in 2013 and then again in early in 2015. I think he showed at the World Cup that he will develop into one of the best and in Super Rugby he has been fantastic. 

"He is a big loss for the Springboks – he was part of our plans and he is still part of our plans. Luckily it's not a long term injury."

Du Toit's injury opened the door for Lions lock Franco Mostert, who joined the Springboks in Stellenbosch from the SA 'A' squad on Tuesday.

Van Graan said he was looking forward to seeing Mostert in a Springbok jersey.

"I am very happy that Franco Mostert has got his opportunity.

"I think he deserves it. He has been unbelievable in Super Rugby…I cannot wait to see him play," he added.

Meanwhile, Van Graan said the absence of overseas-based players Duane Vermeulen, Francois Louw and Steven Kitshoff for the training camp in Stellenbosch is not a major disruption to their planning. The trio will only join the squad on Sunday, June 5. 

"All three are world class players. Duane [Vermeulen] has been the heart and soul of this team for the last four years. 

"Flo [Francois Louw] is one of the best openside flanks in the world, so I don't see any reason why they won't fit in seamlessly next week. 

"They are informed about what is going on and what they need to know, so I don't see any problem with that," said the forwards coach. 

By Warren Fortune

@FortuneWarren

@rugby365com