Springbok and Stormers flank Pieter-Steph du Toit says it is still not clear when he will be able to return to action from his leg injury.

The 2019 World Rugby Player of the Year suffered the injury during the Stormers’ loss to the Blues in late February.

The injury nearly cost Du Toit his leg as the haematoma quickly developed into acute compartment syndrome. Were it not for the quick thinking of team doctor Jason Suter – who described the case as very rare – Du Toit may have been forced into early retirement.

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With the 2020 Vodacom Super Rugby season on an extended break due to the Covid-19 pandemic, Du Toit has continued his recovery on his family’s farm in Riebeek-Kasteel, where he is in lockdown with his wife and baby, as well as his parents and three brothers.

‘You have a bit more space here on the farm, but you are still under lockdown and have to abide by the regulations,’ Du Toit said.

‘Only the essential things are being seen to on the farm at this time, so my parents will have to wait and see what will happen when the extended lockdown period comes to end – just like other farmers and everyone else.

‘My wife is a physiotherapist, so I am lucky in that sense that she can also help me with advice during my rehabilitation while we are in isolation.

‘We dial in a couple of times in the week on the internet, when the coaches speak to the players.

‘So, in that sense it’s nice to keep in touch with everyone even though I am out here on the farm. Otherwise, I make the most of the family time, which includes throwing the odd ball around with my brothers.’

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Du Toit added that he did not want to speculate on when he could return to action, with the timeline on his recovery still uncertain.

‘At this stage it’s still uncertain, so I am literally taking it day by day,’ he said.

‘I am grateful to have my young family, my parents and brothers with me during this time. I would like to urge everyone to adhere to the social distancing rules and to stay indoors and be safe.’