Springbok wing Bryan Habana has been placed on standby for the SA Sevens squad at the Commonwealth Games.

Habana’s availability followed a decision by his club Toulon, in agreement with the French Rugby Federation, to make an exception and allow Habana to play during a rest window in which all French Top 14 players are normally prohibited from playing.

The release came after the deadline for the submission of squads for the Commonwealth Games and, therefore, the leading try-scorer in Springbok history is unable to join the team preparing in Glasgow.

However, he has been cleared to be placed on the SA Sevens standby list. His availability means that should there be an injury in the SA squad, Habana would be allowed to compete, should he be required by the coaches. He was named in the original squad. 

The SA Sevens squad plays three matches on Saturday, against Trinidad & Tobago, the Cook Islands and Kenya, before the knockout matches and medal games on Sunday.

Photo: Sabelo Mngoma/BackpagePix