Grant & Kankowski out of Bok squad

Out: Ryan Kankowski

Peter Grant and Ryan Kankowski have been forced to withdraw from the Springbok squad through injury, the team management announced on Wednesday.

Following a medical examination and further assessment by a specialist, Grant will undergo a surgical procedure to remove scar tissue and bone fragment present in his right shoulder AC joint.

The key hole surgery required will be conducted in the next 48 hours. Grant is expected to make a full recovery in six to 12 weeks, meaning he will play no part in the Mandela Challenge or the remainder of the Tri-Nations.

Kankowski suffered a grade two sprain of his sterno-clavicular joint (shoulder) during the Sharks' Currie Cup encounter with the Lions last Saturday. He will undergo rehabilitation under the supervision of the Sharks medical staff and is expected to recover in two to three weeks.

Springbok coach Peter de Villiers confirmed he will not call up a replacement for Grant at this stage, and no decision has been taken yet on a replacement for Kankowski.