Springbok Jean-Luc du Preez out of Europe tour
A fractured ankle has ruled South Africa flanker Jean-Luc du Preez out of a four-Test tour of Europe in November and December, SA Rugby said Monday.
The 22-year-old son of former Springboks scrum-half Robert du Preez sustained the injury playing for Sharks in the Currie Cup final last Saturday.
While no replacement was named for a tour that includes Tests in Ireland, France, Italy and Wales, uncapped Kwagga Smith of Golden Lions could be called up.
Daniel du Preez, the twin brother of Jean-Luc, was also chosen for a tour that offers the Springboks a chance to redeem themselves in Europe after a disastrous 2016 visit.
They were lucky to draw with a makeshift Barbarians team in London, then lost Tests against England, Italy and Wales to finish with a record eight losses during a calendar year.
This season, South Africa beat France three times and Argentina twice, drew twice with Australia and lost twice to world champions New Zealand.