Lock Andries Ferreira departs Hurricanes

Lock Andries Ferreira has departed the Hurricanes and returned to South Africa.

The 28-year-old suffered a recurrence of a knee injury and after discussions between himself and the Hurricanes it was decided it was beneficial for both parties if he returned home.

He is expected to make a full recovery from the injury but Hurricanes head coach John Plumtree said the squad need a fit lock at present to cover the season ending injury Sam Lousi suffered.

"It's disappointing for us as Andries is an excellent player who had the potential to play an important part in our campaign."

He would continue to monitor his progress and did not rule out Ferreira being part of the Hurricanes in the future.

No replacement for Ferreira has been confirmed.