Jean Kleyn picked for RWC but Springboks hit with three key injuries

Munster second row Jean Kleyn has been included in South Africa's 33-man squad for the Rugby World Cup, but the defending champions have been dealt a major blow ahead of the tournament in France.

Out-half Handre Pollard, centre Lukhanyo Am and lock Lood de Jager have all been left out of the final squad for Ireland's Pool B opponents.

Pollard missed the recent Rugby Championship due to a calf injury with Am suffering a recurrence of a knee injury in last Saturday's win against Argentina. De Jager had also missed that game due to a reported chest infection.

The trio, all of whom started the World Cup final win against England four years ago, have been included on an official "standby" list for the tournament, but can only be added in the event of injury.

Munster lock Kleyn is included among the second rows having won two caps for the Springboks this summer.

The 29-year-old played for Ireland at the 2019 tournament in Japan, but after going more than three years without an Ireland cap was able to transfer his eligibility back to South Africa this summer. He could end up playing against his former international side in the pool stage on 23 September.

Rassie Erasmus and Jacques Nienaber have made some bold calls with their 33-man squad, with a split of 19 forwards and 14 backs.

Captain Siya Kolisi has been included as he looks to recover from a knee injury in time for their tournament opener against Scotland on 10 September.

The South Africa coaches have taken a risk in some areas of the pitch, bringing Bongi Mbonambi and Malcolm Marx as their only two specialist hookers, although back row Deon Fourie is also able to provide front row cover.

There are also just two out-halves selected in the squad, with Manie Libbok and Damian