The double Rugby World Cup winner sustained his injury during the Sharks' 29-19 victory over the Bulls in their United Rugby Championship encounter at Loftus Versfeld in Pretoria last week.

Nyakane limped off the field in the 12th minute of the South African derby after twisting his ankle despite not making any contact.

The 35-year-old broke the news of his surgery on social media after he received a visit in hospital from fellow Springboks front-rowers Bongi Mbonambi and Ox Nche as well as Sharks hooker Fez Mbatha.

"Last week Saturday I ruptured my Achilles tendon, very painful. I just went under the knife, Surgery was very successful, doctors were very positive afterwards," he wrote on Instagram on Friday.

"Now it's the road to recovery and staying positive in this journey. Thank you for all the messages and support from everyone. I really appreciate it.

"A very special thanks to my brothers who came to visit me brought me food, supplies, took care of me and as always good laughs which is needed at times like these.

"@mr_mbonambi @ox_nche @fez_mbatha2 much love brothers. @sharksrugby will be back soon."

Nyakane joined the Sharks last year following a two-year stint with Top 14 outfit Racing 92.

He is expected to be sidelined for the rest of the season and his absence is the latest setback for the Durban-based club who already have a long injury list with fellow Boks Nche (arm muscle), Eben Etzebeth (concussion), Andre Esterhuizen (knee) and Aphelele Fassi (knee) among their players who are currently out of action.

Nyakane was recently amongst 56 players who were invited to Springboks head coach Rassie Erasmus' first alignment camp which will be held in camp in Cape Town from Monday 10 to Wednesday 12 March.

However, his injury meant that he had to withdraw from that camp but there will be serious doubts about whether he will be able to make a comeback from his injury, at his age.

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