Stalwarts Du Preez, Du Plessis return for Blitzboks' Euro trip

Du Preez, the most-capped Blitzbok in history, was recalled after recovering from a shoulder injury he picked up at the victorious event in Seville, Spain in January.

Du Preez, who will appear in his 80th World Series tournament, has played in 400 matches and amassed 1 409 career points, second only to Cecil Afrika (1 462).

Speedster Du Plessis is back after breaking his leg in Dubai at the end of 2021.

Meanwhile, coach Neil Powell also called on Tiaan Pretorius, who made his debut in Dubai in 2021, with the 21-year-old coming into the forwards to provide cover for the injured duo of Sakoyisa Makata and Christie Grobbelaar, both of whom returned injured from the last leg of tournaments in Singapore and Vancouver.

Mfundo Ndhlovu has recovered from the head knock sustained in Singapore and will travel to Toulouse, a new hosting venue for the France Sevens.

Powell was pleased to have two of his three-time World Series winners back.

"We got experience back with the inclusion of Branco and Muller, who were both regular starters before their injuries, so they will add to our depth in the backs," the coach said in a statement.

"We have two forwards out in Sako and Christie, so Tiaan will get another opportunity. I am hoping for a similar effort from him than the last time he played in Dubai.

"Mfundo was unfortunate to be ruled out early in Singapore following HIA protocols and has slotted in very well upon his return to training."

Du Preez said he was eager to hit the ground running: "There is still so much to play for this season, and we need strong performances on this trip to make sure we do justice to the good start we had. We need to bounce back from the last two performances, and I am determined to contribute to that effort."