Former Highlanders skipper diagnosed with cancer

Cape Town - Former Highlanders captain Nasi Manu has been diagnosed with testicular cancer and will begin a cycle of chemotherapy.

The Tongan international, who plays for Benetton Treviso in Italy, has been out of action since having an abnormal growth removed in August. 

Now, the club has announced that the 30-year-old loose forward will begin chemotherapy after getting blood results back last week. 

"Thanks to my club, from management to team-mates, I appreciate all your support," Manu said in a club statement.

"Thanks to my wife, my family and friends. I’ll still have to do the last treatments before the fight can be considered over, but I know I’ll succeed and I’ll be back soon."

Manu also took to Twitter to encourage men to check their testicles for anything unusual and have regular check-ups.

He added that he expects to make a full recovery. 

Thankyou to everyone for the messages of support. Definitely has put a lot of things into perspective. Still a bit of a road to recovery but got the best Italy ???? has to offer and I will make a full recovery I’m sure of it! Don’t be embarrassed, check your balls! #BallOut ?? https://t.co/KYTxVCGA2D

— Nasi Manu (@Nasi_Manu) October 17, 2018