A backline star has played his final game for the Vodacom Bulls after going under the knife.
Bulls coach Johan Ackermann confirmed on Friday that utility back David Kriel underwent achilles surgery earlier this week.
“David is unfortunately finished for the season,” said Ackermann ahead of Saturday’s Vodacom URC clash against Benetton at Loftus Versfeld.
“It was quite a serious achilles injury. He had surgery on Wednesday and he’s on the road to recovery now, but he’ll be out for a couple of months.”
The injury brings an abrupt end to Kriel’s Bulls career, with the versatile back set to join La Rochelle at the conclusion of the season.
Kriel’s last appearance for the Bulls came at fullback against the Scarlets on tour in late April.
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Ackermann also provided an update on wing Cheswill Jooste, who is battling a hamstring injury after an unfortunate run of setbacks.
“On tour he played, then picked up a light ankle injury, then played again against the Scarlets, and against Zebre he pulled his hamstring.
“Clinically, with his injury, he is out for four weeks. This is only week one, so realistically he would probably only be ready if we had the privilege of playing in the final.
“One thing about Cheswill is he is very committed to his rehab and he recovers quickly,” Ackermann added. “From every injury so far, he has come back quicker than expected.”
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Jooste’s injury has also complicated his possible involvement with the Junior Boks ahead of the Junior World Championship.
“With the situation we are in, with David and Sebastian [de Klerk] out, we will ask nicely that Cheswill stays with us, with the playoffs ahead.
“If we are in a different situation injury-wise, and we get through the Benetton game without any further mishap, then we can reconsider sending him to the Junior Bok camps.
“If he joins the group later, he’ll slot in seamlessly.”
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Photo: Euan Cherry/Getty Images
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