Key Springbok forward Duane Vermeulen will have a neck operation on Wednesday and then faces a race against the clock to be fit for the Rugby World Cup in England.

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The surgery rules the 29-year-old No 8 out of five matches during July and August, including a Rugby Championship clash with New Zealand in Johannesburg.

“Duane will be put on an intensive post-operation rehabilitation programme and we will work tirelessly to get him ready for the World Cup,” team doctor Craig Roberts said.

South Africa open their World Cup Pool B campaign on September 19 against Japan in Brighton.

Western Stormer Vermeulen, who illustrates more than any other forward the ultra-physical South African approach, sustained the injury late in the Super 15 season.

“This is a huge setback for us,” admitted Springboks coach Heyneke Meyer. “As with any injury, it is something we simply have to overcome.

“That Duane is a world-class player was underlined last year when he was named South African Rugby Player of the Year and nominated for World Rugby Player of the Year.

“He is among the leaders in our squad and since making his debut in 2012 has become an integral member of the team.”

Roberts said: “Player welfare is very important which is why we made the decision for Duane to undergo surgery. It is the best medium and long-term career option.”

Moore gets the nod

Meanwhile, Stephen Moore has been confirmed as Australia skipper, replacing Michael Hooper.

Moore, Australia’s all-time most capped hooker with 92 Tests, has been reinstated as Wallabies captain following a season-ending injury in his first outing in charge last June.

“Stephen is not only a player who leads by example on the field, he is a man who exemplifies the qualities of a Wallabies captain,” Australia coach Michael Cheika said.

“It is a testament to his character that he has been able to overcome a setback and put himself in a position to lead his country again.

“He has a tremendous amount of respect not only from within this playing group, but across the board in our organisation and universally within the game.”

Moore will be supported by Hooper and Adam Ashley-Cooper, both named vice-captains.

“Having spoken to the two vice-captains, both of them couldn’t have made a higher endorsement of Stephen to lead them personally, this playing group and our country,” Cheika added.