Blitzboks hit hard by injuries

SPRINGBOK Sevens playmaker Justin Geduld has been ruled out of the remaining four tournaments of the World Rugby Sevens, after picking up a foot injury at the Las Vegas Sevens earlier this month.

Geduld underwent surgery on Wednesday and will be out of action for at least six months, according to Springbok Sevens team doctor, Leigh Gordon.

“Justin had surgery to his foot and ankle and is expected to be out for six to nine months,” said Gordon.

She also confirmed that Stephan Dippenaar will have to undergo surgery for a foot injury he sustained in Vancouver last weekend.

“His foot injury requires surgery and he was seeing a surgeon yesterday.

“He is expected to be out of action for between three and six months.”

Gordon also ruled out Rosko Specman for the next two World Rugby Sevens Series tournaments in Hong Kong and Singapore respectively next month.

“Rosko picked up a hamstring injury and will not be fit in time to travel to the next two tournaments, but if all goes well with his recovery, he should be able to play in Paris and London in May.”

Gordon is awaiting scan results from Branco du Preez today, which could also rule the player out for a number of weeks.

“Ruhan Nel is also doubtful due to bone bruising to his ankle.

“He requires rest and the expected time of recovery is between three to four weeks,” said Gordon.

“The same applies to Cecil Afrika, who has a hamstring strain.”

Carel du Preez was earlier ruled out of the next tournament due to a back injury. Also the Blitzboks are without stars Seabelo Senatla and Kwagga Smith, who are both focusing on playing Super Rugby with the Stormers and Lions respectively.

Tim Agaba, though, has been cleared to train with the team when they return to their Stellenbosch base next week.

The squad will assemble again on Wednesday to start their preparations for the Hong Kong tournament from April 7-9.

That will be followed by the Singapore Sevens played on April 15 and 16.