Tendai Mtawarira to return to South Africa
The Beast during a scrumming session with the Springboks. Photo by Getty Images.
Springbok prop Tendai ‘Beast’ Mtawarira will return to South Africa on Monday following a decision that it would be in the player’s best interests not to continue with the tour.
This follows Mtawarira’s withdrawal from last Saturday’s Test against Ireland as a precautionary measure, after he had a recurrence of mild heart palpitations that morning.
“We’ve consulted with Beast and his cardiologist in Durban and although it’s safe for him to play, we decided it would be best for him to return home and rest,” said Springbok coach Heyneke Meyer.
“The player’s welfare is the most important consideration at this stage.”
Mtawarira, who travelled with the rest of the squad to Edinburgh on Sunday, had an irregular heart rhythm, according to Springbok team doctor Craig Roberts. The condition is hereditary.
“He has had this several times before and it’s always been managed accordingly,” said Roberts.
“This condition is not life threatening, but needs to be managed properly which is why we thought it would be in Beast’s best interest to return to South Africa.
“He needs to have a repeat of the minor procedure he had in Cape Town earlier this year and it’s important to notice that he is not at risk by playing with it, and his career is not in jeopardy.”
A decision on a replacement for Mtawarira will be taken in due course.
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