Bulls & SAfrica scrumhalf Hougaard out for 4 weeks

PRETORIA, South Africa (AP) — Bulls and South Africa scrumhalf Francois Hougaard is in danger of missing the start of the new Super 15 rugby season with a broken foot.

The defending champion Bulls say he will be out of action for four weeks after picking up the injury in training last week.

Team doctor Org Strauss says the 22-year-old Hougaard experienced "some pain in his foot" which became worse, and a scan revealed a stress fracture.

Hougaard is in a race against time to be fit for the Bulls' opening game, against fellow South African team the Lions on Feb. 19.

Hougaard has played eight tests for the Springboks and was the first-choice No. 9 for South Africa last season in the absence of injured Bulls teammate Fourie du Preez. He can also play wing.