'I was two millimetres from death': Springbok prop Steven Kitshoff

12/20/2024 04:27 AM

South Africa and Stormers prop Steven Kitshoff recently opened up about the career-threatening neck injury he sustained in a scrum that left him 'two millimetres from death.'

Steven Kitshoff sustained the injury in a Currie Cup match for the Western Province against Griquas in September.

SPRINGBOK PROP STEVEN KITSHOFF’S DISTURBING CONFESSION

Speaking to the media, the 32-year-old, who spent the 2023-2024 season with the Irish province Ulster, made it known he did not initially realise how bad the injury was when it happened until medical tests.

Against the injury, Kitshoff underwent a major neck fusion surgery, which lasted over six hours. The operation was a success, and the 32-year-old is recovering well.

Confirmed reports have it that Steven Kitshoff will be on the sidelines for some time. Little is known about his return to action.

Interestingly, the Stormers have listed the celebrated prop as one of the players set to return from injury next year.

The publication has also established that there will undoubtedly be further assessments from medical specialists.

Speaking to Rapport newspaper, Steven Kitshoff said, “It was just another scrum, then three cracking noises – pop, pop, pop.”

“I kept playing, thinking it was a pulled muscle. But now I know I was two millimetres away from catastrophe, from death.

“The first thing the specialist said to me was ‘listen, you’re lucky we didn’t bury you in a week’ because the vertebra that shifted is so close to my brain canal,” he added.

DESPERATE TO RETURN

The two-time World Cup Winner remains intent on returning to the fold despite the severity of the injury.

“Without the operation, I’d never play rugby again. If my neck holds up, I’m going for it. If I have to retire, I’ll be satisfied but I’m not done yet. I’ve always been a warrior for my team.

“Rugby is a dangerous sport, but I’ll give my all because I’m fighting for my team.”

Springbok prop Steven Kitshoff hopes to find a way back into the Boks’ set-up and complete a three-peat of World Cups.

However, if he fails to return to the fold due to the injury, Steven Kitshoff could be left stranded on 83 Test caps. On the other hand, his second dance with the Stormers may be over before it starts.

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