When the Springbok squad for the World Cup was named, one of the big shocks was the news that lock Lood de Jager was not fit enough to be included.
It was later revealed that De Jager is suffering from pericarditis, a heart condition which a player can develop from exercising when sick.
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De Jager was expected to play a frontline World Cup role for the Springbok side
De Jager had to have meaningful rest during this period, and was initially not allowed to even walk at full pace, but the latest update is far more positive after he got the all clear from a heart specialist to start playing rugby again.
“I can play again,” De Jager told Rapport.
“I will have to build up my fitness again after not being allowed to do anything for more than three months,” he added. “I’m pretty unfit.”
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Back in business
The 30-year-old Springbok has already linked up with his Japanese club Wild Knights and has been pictured in training.
However, De Jager is not expected to be back in action before the end of January.
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