South African-born number eight Dan du Preez faces a lengthy lay-off at Bath, but a rising talent named Green is already making the most of his chance.
South African-born powerhouse Dan du Preez has been dealt a harsh blow at Bath. The number eight has torn a hamstring, and the club have confirmed he will be out for a considerable time.
Du Preez has been a physical presence at the back of the scrum, so his absence leaves a big hole in the Bath pack. Hamstring tears of this kind rarely heal quickly, and the club have not rushed to put a firm date on his return.
There is a bright side for Bath, though. Green, the young prospect, has caught the eye with a display that has been described as pure magic. When a senior player goes down, the next man up has to deliver, and Green has shown he can.
The focus now turns to how Bath manage the loss of their South African enforcer while giving Green room to grow. For du Preez, the road back starts with patience and rehab, and African rugby fans will be hoping to see him back at full strength soon.
