Tuesday Round-Up

JDV worry: Springbok fans will be holding their breath this morning in worry, as news filters through of a lengthy layoff for national team captain Jean de Villiers. After suffering a horrific injury during Saturday’s 12-6 loss at the hands of Wales in Cardiff’s Millennium Stadium, de Villers is now set for an 8 month period away from the game. After initial scans confirmed significant damage was incurred to the medial ligament in his knee, it has now been revealed that de Villiers will require surgery in order to repair the damage. Having already been to consult with a knee specialist, it is now the opinion that the Stormers midfield man will require complete surgical reconstruction of the knee, leaving de Villiers with a race against time to be fit for next year’s showpiece event, the Rugby World Cup in England. Springbok doctor Craig Roberts was reluctant to put an exact timeframe on the layoff, although he was quick to suggest it would stretch over a minimum period of 8 months,

Medard staying put: France’s electrifying winger Maxime Medard has put pen to paper on a new contract with French Top 14 giants Toulouse. Having made his debut for the club bac in 2005, Medard has gone on to establish himself as one of France’s foremost attacking threats and remains a key cog in Guy Noves’ plans at the Stade Ernest Wallon. Averaging just over one try every four games, Medard had been linked with a move away from Toulouse and to title rivals Toulon, although cold water was poured on such a deal, with Medard completing contract talks with his current outfit. Capped on 41 occasions by France, Medard’s new contract will see him remain at Toulouse until the close of the 2019 season.

Ryan Sheady