Bulls lose more than just three Boks

The Bulls received a further blow after their loss to the Crusaders with the news that three of their Springboks are heading home.

Akona Ndungane, Francois Hougaard and Wyand Oliver all suffered injuries in the 41-19 loss to the seven-time champions in Christchurch on Saturday and will take no further part in their tour.

The trio will be replaced by Francois Venter, Ruan Snyman and Bjorn Basson as the Bulls look to bounce back from their first defeat of the season when they face the Reds next week.

Olivier (knee) will be sidelined for four weeks, Hougaard (ankle) two weeks and Ndungane (cheekbone) four weeks.

The Bulls are in Brisbane to play the Reds this weekend and have another match in Australia in a fortnight, when they will face the Brumbies in Canberra.

Flip van der Merwe (chest) is also doubtful for the Reds clash, whilst Grant Hattingh suffered a knock against the head and will not train early in the week.

Lionel Mapoe and Dewald Potgieter will also be fit for selection this week

Apart from the touring squad, the recovery of Dean Greyling and Marcel van der Merwe is on track.

Van der Merwe will be ready to return to the playing field in May and Greyling could be back in three weeks.