Springboks lock Lood de Jager is grateful to still be on the field after missing the Rugby World Cup due to a heart problem. The powerful second-row was diagnosed with pericarditis, a heart lining inflammation, just before the squad announcement for the tournament. Despite missing the World Cup, De Jager returned to action in January with the Japan Rugby League One team Saitama Wild Knights. The 31-year-old credits the Springboks medical team for catching the issue, preventing a potentially disastrous outcome.

De Jager's return to the field came after a period of rest and recovery, where he had to refrain from any strenuous exercise to ensure a smooth comeback.