Springbok man Mountain suffered a chest and shoulder injury during the 2023 Rugby World Cup final against the All Blacks in Paris last year.
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The 29-year-old returned home weeks after South Africa won the title in France and underwent corrective surgery.
It was initially thought the two-time World Cup winner would be sidelined for several months to recover and rehabilitate. However, Munster head coach Graham Rountree has revealed: irish examiner Snyman has resumed full-contact training, with the Springboks announcing they are on track for an earlier-than-expected return.
“He trained today,” Rountree admitted on Tuesday.
“His return could be a little earlier than the Zebre game.” [on March 1]. I don't know exactly, but I think I'll see him in February. He's definitely encouraging me and he's working harder in training.
“He has been thoroughly professional and committed to the group since the news broke about him. I don't expect anything less from him. He's a quality addition to us. Ta.”
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Snyman recently signed a contract with Munster's arch-rivals Leinster for next season. The deal angered many Munster fans, given that Snyman had been injured for much of his playing time with the Limerick club.
But Rountree isn't the type to hold a grudge.
“What's done is done, this is business,” continued the former British & Irish Lions player and coach.
“He's made a decision. I'm interested in what he does with Munster for the rest of the season. I'm sure he'll give his all.”
Munster — Currently languishing in 11th place in the United Rugby Championship table, Munster travel to Llanelli in Wales to face the Scarlets on February 16th.
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Springbok Big Man RG Snyman
