SPOTLIGHT: The double World Cup-winner Steven Kitshoff remains hopeful of his professional rugby career as he recovers from a neck fusion operation.

The Springbok suffered the career-threatening neck injury while playing for Western Province in a Currie Cup match against Griquas last year.

The prop underwent surgery towards the end of 2024. The surgery saw his C1 and C2 vertebrae fused, which surgery has reduced his neck mobility by 50 pecent.

According to various media reports, the loosehead will start his rehabilitation soon.

The prop missed the Springboks’ November Tests and he hasn’t played a match for the Stormers in the United Rugby Championship (URC) since he returned to South Africa.

However, he is in no rush to return to the field of play.

“I am in no rush to get back on the field or force myself into anything early,” Kitshoff told IOL.

“I just want to make sure my health is good, my neck is strong and from there I will make a decision.

“I’m about two months post my operation now and after seeing the specialist last week, he is very happy with my progression.

“It will probably take another couple of months for that bone to solidify and for the internal wound to heal.

“But, I am taking my time and will start my rehab process quite soon and take it day by day.”

While the prop is optimistic about a return, he is also at peace with the alternative outcome – stating he has made some great memories over the 12 years at the top level of professional rugby.

“There is still that passion for rugby and that drive, but if it is not meant to be, I will make peace with it.

“To be honest, I haven’t thought past next month,” the 32-year-old stated.

“I’ve achieved a lot and I am proud of my career. They always speak about not regretting anything you’ve done and I am happy I went to France in 2016. I spent two years there and came back to the Stormers.

“My stint at Ulster [after the 2023 World Cup], all those things help you to learn and grow as a person. It was good for my wife Aimee and I to bond and get away from the clutter in South Africa, especially on the sporting scene. We grew as a couple.

“If it is meant to be that I continue playing, I am sure I will make more great memories.”

Sources: Sports 24 & IOL