Munster Expecting To Finalise Deal For Springbok Centre
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Munster were dealt a serious blow last week when it was revealed that Francis Saili will miss up to four months out following shoulder surgery.
As a result Rassie Erasmus has identified Springbok centre Jaco Taute [Western Province] as a temporary replacement but the final contracts have yet to be signed. The IRFU would prefer if Munster promoted a centre from within, or moved the likes of Keith Earls to centre, and there has even been talks about loaning out a centre from another province but Erasmus is confident he will get his man.
Speaking at the PRO12 launch Erasmus said,
“We have to give the young guys a proper chance. Some guys had an opportunity last Friday [against Zebre] and did really well.
“But we also have to be realistic. We did lose a lot of experience with Francis. Everybody is talking about Jaco Taute. He is one of the guys we are talking to the IRFU about. They are definitely supportive, to try and help us, because of that experience [he has].”
“With a short-term loan from another province,” Erasmus added, “he has family and stuff to look after. There are work permits and such to look after. A lot of things can happen. There is speculation out there but nothing is signed or sealed yet.” [SportsJoe]
