Botha injury problems continue
Bakkies Botha has been out of action since the Springboks' November tour
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- South Africa have shelved plans for France to play a midweek tour match in June due to logistical problems.
The fixture, which would have seen a Springbok Invitational XV face Les Bleus, was due to be held at the Boland Stadium in Wellington, just five days after the two countries meet in a one-off Test match in Cape Town.
- Newcastle's veteran prop Micky Ward has signed a one-year extension with the club. Ward has made over 250 first-team appearances for the Guinness Premiership side and is joined in re-signing by 24-year-old scrum-half Chris Pilgrim, who impressed during a trial from Nottingham last season.
"Everyone knows what a great club man Micky Ward is, and it is fantastic news that he has signed on for another year with us," director of rugby Steve Bates said. "He brings vast Guinness Premiership experience to the table, he remains a strong scrummager and his attitude behind the scenes is an example to all aspiring players.
"We are also delighted that Chris Pilgrim has signed up for two more years. Chris has impressed us greatly since arriving on trial last summer, he is a tough competitor and a quick learner who has adapted well to Guinness Premiership rugby."
- Conor O'Shea will start his tenure as Harlequins' director of rugby on March 15. The former Ireland fullback and London Irish coach's first game in charge will be against Bath on March 27.
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