Springbok remains stood down from rugby, with unknown return date

, du Preez is still experiencing recurring headaches, despite being in otherwise good physical condition. As a result, medical staff have introduced a new recovery protocol, further postponing any potential return.

The South African flanker has not featured since January 18, when UBB faced Bristol in the Champions Cup.

He was forced off that night after sustaining another concussion, his third in just a few months, adding to those he picked up while on international duty with the Springboks over the summer.

This is not his first setback of the season. He also suffered a knee injury in September, making it a particularly difficult campaign for the former Sale Sharks player, who only joined Bordeaux last summer.

Although he has largely been on the fringes of the Springboks squad under Rassie Erasmus, du Preez was given a chance at number eight during the Rugby Championship due to limited options in that position.

Illness ruled him out late against Australia, and although another opportunity arose against New Zealand, his knee injury kept him out of the Eden Park clash and the start of the northern hemisphere season.

According to Sud Ouest

For now, he is not cleared to resume contact training. Bordeaux are taking a cautious approach, prioritising player welfare on an issue that has become increasingly significant in professional rugby. At this stage, the situation goes beyond just sporting concerns.