Springbok captain Jean de Villiers might have some of the worst luck in the rugby world. He sustained a horrific knee injury against Wales, which has put a massive question mark over his fitness for the upcoming Rugby World Cup next year. The Springboks will also have to replace the centre position for the national tests in the coming months. De Villiers’ knee reconstruction surgery was a success, but with an 8-month rehab period, it’s hard to see the courageous centre back in full form before the prestigious tournament.

In the meantime, according to Menstuff, here are six players who could fill the void left in the Springbok centres:

Jan Serfontein

Jan Serfontein has stood up well to test rugby and seemed to have thrived in the heavier, Northern Hemisphere conditions. This all bodes well for his prospects for his RWC selection. He runs hard, and tackles most bodies running in his channel. What he lacks in creativity he makes up for in professionalism and heart. Heyneke Meyer clearly likes him in the position so it’s hard to see why he shouldn’t get the nod in the centre, especially for the immediate future.

Francois Steyn

Francois Steyn has always been the enigma of South African rugby. There is no doubt of the talent that this man possesses. But does his desire to succeed in the green and gold jersey really trump that of club rugby, where his earning capacity is almost limitless? One thing is for sure, the Boks could certainly use his prodigious boot and game-breaking ability. He is also a proven winner, and would bring tremendous experience to a fairly young looking Springbok backline at the World Cup. My advice to SARU? Sort this man out and get him back playing rugby in South Africa.

Juan de Jongh

Juan de Jongh had an immense Currie Cup leading Western Province to the coveted trophy. De Jongh also had an impressive tour with the Barbarians at the end of the year, but you can’t read too much int0 those performances. His ability to break the gain-line has prospered over the last year, and his defense is solid as always. Heyneke Meyer doesn’t seem to fancy the Western Province centre however, and it may take an impressive Super Rugby campaign to catapult him back into Meyer’s plans.

Click through to MenStuff to see the remaining three players.