Kriel given all clear to return to training

The Vodacom Bulls may well get a massive boost with Springbok Jesse Kriel cleared to train this week and available for selection for their last match in regular Vodacom Super Rugby season against the Emirates Lions this weekend, but there are some questionmarks over other players ahead of a crucial team selection.

Kriel has made a full recovery from his ankle injury and starts training on Tuesday, and given the professional that he is, it wouldn’t be too much of a surprise if the Bulls include him for his farewell at Loftus Versfeld. Given the importance of the game and the fact the Bulls will want to secure their place in the playoffs, he may well be more than just a substitute on Saturday.

The problems for the Bulls though come with two of their other Springboks. Schalk Brits and Marco van Staden both left the field against the Highlanders with concussion last Friday and it looked as if they may have been ruled out already, but the team injury report gives them still a chance to play with the decision likely to be taken later in the week.

“They will be doing their gradual return to training protocol and the question on their availability we will only be able to answer later this week,” team doctor Herman Rossouw said.

Both are key in the Bulls pack and coach Pote Human will be looking to include them for the game to secure the vital playoff spot.

There was good news in that both Springbok fullback Warrick Gelant and Blitzbok winger Rosko Specman have shaken off their hamstring strains and should be considered for selection. Specman returned home early from the tour because of the injury while Gelant withdrew from the Highlanders game at the captain’s practice and both will be welcomed back.

Dr Rossouw also confirmed Lood de Jager didn’t make his targeted return to action this week and continues to undergo rehabilitation for the shoulder injury he sustained.

Paul Schoeman’s injury is worse than expected and he has torn a hamstring tendon that will keep him out of action for eight weeks.

The Bulls will name their side on Wednesday for the clash.