Silver lining to Matfield surgery

Pretoria - Surgery to Victor Matfield's knee will keep him out of action for an extended period of time, but will enhance his chances of playing at the Rugby World Cup, according to the Bulls.

The Bulls medical staff have confirmed on Tuesday that Matfield will undergo surgery on his injured right knee and will be out of action for three to four weeks.

In a statement released by the Bulls, team doctor Org Strauss confirmed that the 121-Test veteran will undergo arthroscopic surgery on Wednesday on his knee to fix up damaged cartilage.

Matfield could have played the season without undergoing the procedure, but the decision was made as a precautionary measure building towards the World Cup.

"The idea is to get it done now to avoid problems going forward - especially with the World Cup getting closer as well," Strauss said.