Van der Merwe on Bok standby

Ireland-based prop Heinke van der Merwe has been shortlisted as a possible replacement in the Springbok squad for the year-end tour.

After days of speculation which linked Northampton Saints' Zimbabwean Bok Brian Mujati to a Bok call-up it was revealed on  Monday that he will remain in the international wilderness.

While Meyer sung Mujati's praises, he confirmed that the player's passport and citizenship issues have prevented his call-up.

Van der Merwe, who played his only Test in 2007 and currently plays for Irish province Leinster, has been shortlisted join the squad for matches against Ireland (November 10), Scotland (November 17) and England (November 24).

Reports have suggested that French-based Bok Gurthrö Steenkamp is struggling with injury and Van der Merwe has been placed on standby.

It was also reported that flank Francois Louw is still struggling with a neck injury.

Springbok team doctor Craig Roberts said they will have a better indication of the players’ fitness after Monday’s training session.

Roberts did convey that Schalk Brits took a knock to the knee during Saracens' win over London Wasps on Sunday but said they are pleased with his fitness and expect him to be ready for Saturday.

Roberts added that captain Jean de Villiers is in the final stages of his rehabilitation on his hamstring and will be closely monitored throughout the week.