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Cape Town - The Springboks will be happy to have the services of scrumhalf Fourie du Preez back for their final two Rugby Championship Tests.
Japan-based Du Preez was not available for the away leg in the competition but will be in the mix for the Tests against Australia at Newlands (September 28) and Ellis Park (October 5).
Du Preez was outstanding when the played in the 73-13 demolition of Argentina in Soweto a few weeks ago, while current No 9 incumbent Ruan Pienaar has struggled for form.
Pienaar had a poor game against the All Blacks in Auckland last week, and seems to be struggling to adapt to the fast-paced Southern Hemisphere game. His passing and kicking game was below-par and he was often caught in possession by an eagerly awaiting All Black defence.
Skipper Jean de Villiers seemed to defend Pienaar's performance, but admitted the arrival of Du Preez would be welcomed.
"I thought Ruan did well (on Saturday), but it's great great having Fourie back," De Villiers told the Cape Times.
The captain said Du Preez will definitely strengthen the squad and that it's great to have his sort of experience to call on.
The Bok squad will assemble again in Cape Town on Friday, where they will be assessed, with a final call on any possible changes to be made on Sunday.
Japan-based Du Preez was not available for the away leg in the competition but will be in the mix for the Tests against Australia at Newlands (September 28) and Ellis Park (October 5).
Du Preez was outstanding when the played in the 73-13 demolition of Argentina in Soweto a few weeks ago, while current No 9 incumbent Ruan Pienaar has struggled for form.
Pienaar had a poor game against the All Blacks in Auckland last week, and seems to be struggling to adapt to the fast-paced Southern Hemisphere game. His passing and kicking game was below-par and he was often caught in possession by an eagerly awaiting All Black defence.
Skipper Jean de Villiers seemed to defend Pienaar's performance, but admitted the arrival of Du Preez would be welcomed.
"I thought Ruan did well (on Saturday), but it's great great having Fourie back," De Villiers told the Cape Times.
The captain said Du Preez will definitely strengthen the squad and that it's great to have his sort of experience to call on.
The Bok squad will assemble again in Cape Town on Friday, where they will be assessed, with a final call on any possible changes to be made on Sunday.
