Bulls wing Bjorn Basson has undergone surgery in New Zealand after he sustained a tear to his intestines during his side’s loss to the Crusaders in Christchurch.

Basson was forced off the field during the first half of the playoff match on Saturday – the third injury the visitors suffered in the opening 40 minutes.

The Bulls said Basson would remain in hospital for at least another five days and would have to stay in New Zealand for five more days before he would be able to fly out of the country.

“Our team doctor, Org Strauss, stayed behind to look after Bjorn when the rest of the squad departed for home via Sydney.

“We have informed his wife of his injury which will keep him off the field for at least six weeks.” ” Blue Bulls CEO Barend van Graan said in a statement.