Vermeulen gives thumbs up after surgery

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Duane Vermeulen has given an update on his injury situation after the Springbok No 8 underwent knee surgery on Tuesday.

Vermeulen and Frans Steyn were the notable omissions from the Springbok squad for the upcoming Test season.

MORE: No Duane, Steyn as eight newbies named in Bok squad

The incumbent Bok No 8, Vermeulen is believed to have been rested for the series to undergo surgery on a knee complaint, which was confirmed by Jacques Nienaber during a media conference on Tuesday.

“Duane is going for a procedure during this week; I think he’s got clearance from his club to do his rehabilitation in South Africa. Then he will go through the procedure, through the rehab and once he’s cleared by his club we can pull him into our squad,” said Nienaber.

The 35-year-old gave an update on his situation on social media, posting that the surgery was successful as he now recovers before undergoing his rehab work.

As it stands, the Springboks have plenty of cover at No 8, with Jasper Wiese and Kwagga Smith – both of whom filled in for Vermeulen during the British & Irish Lions series last year – in the squad.

Marcell Coetzee has spent most of his time with the Vodacom Bulls at flank, but can also play No 8, while youngsters Evan Roos and Elrigh Louw are also in the squad.

Photo: Gallo Images

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Dylan Jack