Rugby World Cup match halted as Namibia star suffers HORROR injury vs New Zealand with ankle left facing wrong way
NAMIBIA star Le Roux Malan suffered a horror injury while in action at the Rugby World Cup tonight.
The centre started as his nation took on New Zealand in Toulouse.
With his side trailing 12-3 on 19 minutes, Malan went in for a tackle on Beauden Barrett.
Having lost his footing while doing so, however, the 24-year-old was left with what appeared to be a badly broken ankle.
With his ankle facing the wrong way, Malan immediately signalled for medical attention.
Players from across both teams looked in deep distress as their colleague received treatment.
Malan was down for a total of seven minutes as he was attended to by doctors.
He was eventually stretchered off while wearing an oxygen mask.
As he was taken off the field, he received a poignant ovation from the Toulouse crowd.
Malan received plenty of well wishes on social media.
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A powerful reaction from the crowd in Toulouse after injury to Le Roux Malan
— Rugby World Cup (@rugbyworldcup) September 15, 2023
Get well soon#RWC2023 | #NZLvNAM pic.twitter.com/8U3rKVdOSo
One fan wrote: “We wish him a speedy recovery.”
While a second tweeted: “That was not pretty, hopefully he has a speedy recovery!”
And a third added: “Get well soon mate.”
Malan plays his club rugby for New England Free Jacks.
In a statement posted to social media, they wrote: “Our thoughts and hearts are with our own Le Roux Malan who suffered a lower body injury while representing Namibia today against the All Blacks in the Rugby World Cup.
“The Free Jacks family stands by Le Roux as he navigates the recovery process.
“We ask that Le Roux is given time and respect as the post injury process is navigated and thank everyone for the messages of support for Le Roux.”
New Zealand went on to win tonight’s match 71-3.