Springboks recall Daniel du Preez for All Blacks Test

Number eight Daniel du Preez was recalled to the South Africa squad on Monday as they prepared to face New Zealand in the Rugby Championship this weekend in Cape Town.

The uncapped forward was already expected to be called up for the final-round match after No.8 Uzair Cassiem suffered a fractured rib during a 27-27 draw against Australia last Saturday.

Although Jean-Luc du Preez, Daniel's twin brother, came off the bench against the Wallabies, his preferred position is flanker.

Coach Allister Coetzee must decide whether Jean-Luc or his raw brother faces an All Blacks team that sealed a fifth Rugby Championship title in six attempts last weekend.

First-choice No.8 and Springboks skipper Warren Whiteley sustained a groin injury during a Test against France last June and has not played since.

South Africa team doctor Konrad von Hagen has said he hopes Whiteley will be fit for a tour of Europe, which starts against Ireland on November 11.

Von Hagen said it will take Cassiem "about six weeks" to recover, making him a doubtful starter for a European tour that also includes Tests in France, Italy and Wales.

Wingers Raymond Rhule and Sibusiso Nkosi and prop Wilco Louw have also been added to the squad for the New Zealand Test, but none are likely to make the match day 23.

source: AFP