Heart condition stops Boks' Beast

Tendai 'Beast' Mtawarira has been dropped from the Springboks’ northern hemisphere tour due to his heart condition, and will return to South Africa, the SA Rugby Union says

This follows Mtawarira’s withdrawal from the Test against Ireland as a precautionary measure, after he had a recurrence of mild heart palpitations.

“We’ve consulted with Beast (Mtawarira) 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,” Springbok coach Heyneke Meyer said.

“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.

“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 would be taken in due course.