Namibia center Le Roux Malan suffered an apparently horrific ankle fracture during his country’s World Cup match against New Zealand.
In the 19th minute of the match, with Namibia trailing 12–3, Le Roux appeared to lose his balance as he tried to tackle New Zealander Beauden Barrett high up the pitch.
He immediately realized there was a problem and waved at medics, with the referee stopping play as players from both sides put their hands on their heads.
Play was stopped for about seven minutes as the 24-year-old was treated for an injury where his ankle was facing the wrong way and the host broadcaster showed footage of the incident and not a replay.
Players, officials and supporters all clapped Malan off the field of play as he was escorted on a buggy before play resumed.
Namibia’s Le Roux Malan suffered a horrific ankle injury during his side’s match against New Zealand at the Rugby World Cup
Play was stopped for seven minutes as the center received treatment and oxygen on the pitch
Messages of support began pouring in for the New England Free Jacks player, with the wish for a speedy recovery clearly central.
“I wish Le Roux Malan all the best in his recovery,” said a user on X, formerly Twitter.
“A terrible way for Le Roux Malan’s #RWC2023 to end and we wish him all the best,” said another.
‘Warm applause from the audience.’
“Honestly well done to the French broadcaster for getting over the injury,” a third added. ‘Luke Pearce’s face said it all.
‘I send wishes to Le Roux Malan. That’s one that’s terrible.’
Ugo Monye, a former England man turned pundit, said in ITV commentary: ‘Oh god. We don’t need a repeat of that.’
Namibia are one of the worst ranked teams at the World Cup in France and suffered a heavy 52-8 defeat to Italy in the opening match of the tournament.
They are heading for another blow from New Zealand as the All Blacks look to bounce back after losing to hosts and favorites France on the opening night of the competition.
Namibia still has to face France and Uruguay in the group stage and will almost certainly end up at the bottom of group A.
New Zealand, meanwhile, will play matches against Italy and Uruguay before their own pool stages are over.