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Eben Etzebeth in doubt for All Blacks Test after tragic passing of his father
By Kim Ekin
Springbok captain Eben Etzebeth’s father Harry sadly passed away on Tuesday putting his availability in doubt for Saturday’s clash with New Zealand.
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It is not yet clear if the Springbok captain will request to return to South Africa or participate in the Rugby Championship Test against the All Blacks in Auckland on Saturday.
An SA Rugby official told AFP that “Springbok management will leave it up to Eben whether he wants to return home immediately or lead the team on Saturday.
“Our understanding is that Eben is very emotional at the moment as he was extremely close to his father,” he added.
Etzebeth’s father had been suffering from cancer.
He was one of nine children and a sportsman in his own right as a successful wrestler and cricket player.
Harry is said to have been battling an illness and was unable to travel hence Eben’s desire to make his 100th appearance in Cape Town.
he'll play for his Dad, I am sure and he'll dedicate the win to his Dad's memory
So sad for Eben. RIP Harry. When Eben is in Cape Town he stays in my neck of the woods and I ofter see him at restaurants and occasionally in the local gym. He always has time to have a quick chat. Really nice guy. I think they should let him go home be with his family and mourn his Dad. His position is certain and if he did contribute to a win against our most respected foe it is nowhere near as important as for him to be in the space he needs to be right now.