South Africa captain Siya Kolisi’s participation in the World Cup later this year remained in the balance as SA Rugby said on Wednesday it was too early to say following his knee surgery last week.

It was the first official acknowledgement of an injury suffered a fortnight ago and that has been the subject of much media speculation since.

SA Rugby said on Wednesday it would monitor his rehabilitation following surgery on an injury suffered playing for the Sharks against Irish club Munster in the United Rugby Championship on April 22.

“Kolisi underwent the operation on Friday and Springbok team doctor Jerome Mampane and his medical team will continue to monitor his recovery and rehabilitation. Mampane said it was too early to make any reliable forecasts on when Kolisi may be able to return to play,” a statement said.

Kolisi suffered a partial tear to his anterior cruciate ligaments (ACL) but both his club and SA Rugby remained tight-lipped over the last 10 days refusing to confirm leaks about his condition.

It was social media posts from Kolisi’s wife Rachel that confirmed the surgery.

Kolisi is key for the Boks as a player and captain and is one of the most respected figures in the global game. He is due to move to French club Racing 92 after the World Cup in France, which runs from from Sept. 8-Oct. 28.

It will now be a race against time for the 31-year-old to make the squad for the tournament.

“We wish Siya well during his recovery and we know that he will do everything possible to return to play soon as possible,” said Springbok coach Jacques Nienaber.

South Africa, who name their final 33-man squad for the World Cup on Aug. 8, begin their title defence against Scotland in Marseille on Sept. 10.

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