The Chris Burger Petro Jackson Players Fund pledged its support to the two young players who suffered serious neck injuries over the weekend.

DHL Western Province Under-21 lock JD Schickerling suffered a broken neck after a dangerous tackle during the DHL WP U21 side’s clash against the Bulls U21s in Pretoria on Saturday. He was rushed to the hospital, where he is currently receiving treatment after two operations.

Messages of support have flooded in for the talented 19-year-old, including from high-profile players. Springbok lock Bakkies Botha said on Twitter: “Wishing you strength after your accident on the field. I believe you will return a stronger player. Blessings.”

The Chris Burger Petro Jackson Players Fund has also passed on its support since the incident, according to Morne du Plessis, the Chairman of trustees.

“We’ve met with Western Province and the Blue Bulls after receiving the terrible news. It’s never nice to hear about a young player getting seriously injured on the rugby field,” Du Plessis told the MyPlayers.co.za website.

“I met with Western Province CEO Rob Wagner, and he has ensured that the union will look after JD and his parents during this difficult time. The Blue Bulls have also played their part in offering support.

“Overall, the support over the past few days has been amazing,” added Du Plessis.

“Hearing a guy like Springbok lock Bakkies Botha taking time to pass on his wishes is great to see. The national team has always been supportive of the Chris Burger Petro Jackson Players Fund as they acknowledge the threat of serious injuries.”

There was a second serious incident over the weekend as Tukkies Youth Club player Dyllan Beneckhe also suffered a neck injury during an Under-16 club game.

Du Plessis added that the Chris Burger Petro Jackson Players Fund was assisting the player where possible.

“This is another unfortunate situation. We will meet with the player and his parents and offer financial and moral support,” said Du Plessis. “The Bulls have also played their part by offering support.

“The Chris Burger Petro Jackson Players Fund, together with BokSmart, have worked hard to ensure that players’ safety is considered across all levels in rugby,” he added. “This has seen the level of injuries decrease in recent years.

“It’s been an unfortunate that last weekend witnessed two injuries – especially one happening at a professional level. We will continue with our hard work.”

When asked if both players had the chance of playing rugby again, Du Plessis believed their health should be the main focus.

“It’s tough to predict if these boys will return to the rugby field. We will have to wait for the full medical reports as every injury is different,” he said. “We have had players make successful recoveries from serious neck injuries, like Schalk Burger.

“But we need to remember that a full recovery is the most important part of this process right now. Rugby comes second.”