Bryan Habana – On standby for Blitzbokke duty
Toulon have released South Africa winger Bryan Habana to play for the Blitzbokke at the Commonwealth Games.
Habana had previously been named in the original squad to compete in Scotland before the club decided to prevent him from participating.
However, Toulon have now announced that the 97-times capped flyer has been released to compete in the tournament before he links up with the Springboks to play in The Rugby Championship.
Schalk Brits is the other big name who won’t be featuring in the competition, after his release was denied by Saracens.
Planet Rugby
The South African Sports & Olympic Committee have confirmed that Habana is only on standby for the Games after his release came following the deadline for squad submissions.
“Habana’s availability followed a decision by his club Toulon, in agreement with the French Rugby Federation (FFR), to make an exception and allow Habana to play during a rest window during which all French Top 14 players are normally prohibited from playing,” read the statement.
“The release came after the deadline for the submission of squads for the Commonwealth Games and, therefore, the leading scorer in Springbok history is unable to join the team preparing in Glasgow.”
“However, he has been cleared to be placed on the Team SA Sevens standby list.”
“His availability means that should there be an injury in the Team SA squad, Habana would be allowed to compete, should he be required by the coaches. He was named in the original squad.”