Photo: Anton Geyser / Rugby 15

Vodacom Bulls flyhalf Handré Pollard has been ruled out of rugby for at least nine months after rupturing knee ligaments in training on Monday. He will be operated on Wednesday.

Pollard’s injury came on the first day of his return to rugby and according to Vodacom Bulls coach Nollis Marais, was a freak accident.

“Handré was easing back into training, his first phase of final rehab before being cleared to play and was busy with a passing drill when he injured himself. This is pretty devastating for all of us, as Handré was a key player for us. We are fortunate to have two very capable flyhalves still in our squad in Tian Schoeman and Francois Brummer. They now get the opportunity to showcase their skills and I am confident that we can still achieve our goals for the season.”

Marais also confirmed that Lappies Labuschagne injured his ankle on Wednesday and will be in a race to be fit for the opening Vodacom Super Rugby clash against the DHL Stormers on 27 February. 

“As things stand, he will not be able to train for at least two weeks,” Marais said.

“We hope to have him back on the field for the opening match, but will be guided by our medical staff in that regard,” according to Marais.