Pretoria - Springbok flyhalf Handre Pollard is back with the Blue Bulls this week and nearing a return to full fitness, it was confirmed on Monday.
Springbok team doctor Konrad von Hagen confirmed in Port Elizabeth that the 23-year-old Pollard was on the verge of being available for selection once again.
"Handre had a full week of training with the team and he also did a lot of extras in fitness and rehab and he had a great upward curve," Von Hagen told media.
"He will continue that at the Bulls next week and I see he will be available for selection soon."
But, how soon?
Springbok coach Allister Coetzee confirmed last week that Pollard could have been selected for the PE Test against Argentina if there was an emergency.
But, instead of rushing him back, Coetzee thought it best to leave the 2015 World Cup pivot at home for another week as the Boks travels to Salta for their second Rugby Championship clash against the Pumas this weekend.
The Blue Bulls, meanwhile, are in Currie Cup action on Friday night when they take on the Pumas in Nelspruit.
With John Mitchell set to announce his side for that clash on Wednesday, there is just a slight chance that Pollard could feature.
Whether or not Pollard is selected will be up to Springbok management and not the Blue Bulls.