Key Bok duo give de Villiers fitness boost

SOUTH AFRICA coach Peter de Villiers is encouraged by the progress made by key duo Ruan Pienaar and Frans Steyn ahead of the three-Test series against the British and Irish Lions.

The Sharks pair were injured during the latter stages of the Super 14 competition, but appear to be on course to be fit for the first match in Durban on June 20.

De Villiers has taken plenty of positives since the Springboks gathered at camp two weeks ago – not least the return to fitness of Pienaar (ankle) and Steyn (knee).

“They will continue to receive treatment in the days ahead to ensure that they will be fit for selection ahead of the first Test on June 20,” said de Villiers. “The good news from the medical and conditioning team is that they expect a fully-fit squad by that time.

“With the initial groundwork done, the full squad of 28 will hit the ground running in Durban next week as we intensify preparations for the first Test.”

De Villiers, who has not named a specialist full-back in his squad, also refused to give anything away as to who will pull on the disputed number 15 jersey.

“Since our squad announcement there has been much debate over who will play full-back in the series. There are numerous candidates in the squad who are all more than capable in the position and we will be looking at each of them in the coming weeks.”