Fourie du Preez

Springbok scrumhalf Fourie du Preez will be available and will be considered for the Springbok squad in 2 months’ time.

There have been whispers about whether Du Preez will play for the Springboks, and what his obligations are to his Japanese club. However the team manager of the Springboks Ian Schwartz cleared up any uncertainty over the situation.

Du Preez played no role in the Springbok’s 1st training camp, and is currently not playing any rugby, although, he has been in the country since March.

Schwartz explained that this is due to an agreement with his Japanese club Suntory, that keeps him away from national practices. Only however, until the international season begins in July when he will be free to be selected for the Springboks 1st match against the World XV on 11 July.

Du Preez is in regular contact with Springbok fitness coach Basil Carzis and, according to Schwartz, is “working very hard” to get into top shape.

Meyer likes Du Preez ability to conduct his preferred pattern of play and has twice brought him back into the Bok squad after long lay-offs – for 4 tests in 2013 and for 3 last year.

He was available for more games last season, but a damaged ankle ruled him out of the Rugby Championship and the end-of-year tour.

Schwartz ensured that Springbok management are targeting the World XV game to bring Du Preez back into action.

Jean de Villiers is hoping to be ready for the clash against the World XV, but it is clear that Meyer will have no choice but to nurse some of his injured soldiers through the Rugby Championship in an effort to have them in peak condition for the World Cup.

In light of this, it might end up a watered-down Springbok team bidding for a Rugby Championship, in interest of claiming the World Cup.

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