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Du Preez to miss Tri-Nations tour

Wednesday 18th June 2008

Fourie du Preez: Bok half-back still on the mend

South Africa's World Cup-winning scrum-half Fourie du Preez's rehabilitation from a broken hand will take longer than initially anticipated and will result in the number nine missing the away leg of the Tri-Nations.

The Bulls captain will stay in South Africa while the Springboks tour and will miss the two Tests in New Zealand and one in Australia during the first three weekends of July.

Springbok coach Peter de Villiers and Du Preez discussed the way back from the injury with both parties agreeing that Du Preez should regain his fitness by playing for the Blue Bulls in the Currie Cup.

"I've spoken to (Springbok coach) Peter de Villiers and he agrees that I should make my return at provincial level rather than at Test level," Du Preez said.

Du Preez has identified July 12 as a likely comeback date when the Blue Bulls take on the Cheetahs at Loftus Versveld.

A plate and twelve screws have been inserted to mend the fracture in his hand. Now he is following a rehabilitation programme under the guidance of Basil Carzis, the Blue Bulls' conditioning expert.

The Springboks return from their way leg of the Tri-Nations to take on Argentina at Ellis Park on 9 August.