South Africa

Francois Hougaard of South Africa© Renee McKay/Getty Images

Francois Hougaard has returned to South Africa's Sevens setup after his stint with Worcester Warriors.

Springboks scrum-half Hougaard excelled at the Warriors following his mid-season move and has committed to the club ahead of next season. But first up are the Olympics and Hougaard is hoping to win a place in South Africa's squad for Rio 2016.

The South Africa Sevens side has welcomed Springboks star Bryan Habana into the fold this year and Hougaard played for the Sevens side at the Dubai, Cape Town, Wellington and Sydney legs of the World Rugby Sevens Series.

Hougaard is now in contention for the Paris and London tournaments and coach Neil Powell is delighted to have him available.

"It is nice to see Francois back," said Powell. "He did well for us in the first four tournaments and I am sure he will fit in nicely this week. He remains committed to try and make the squad that will travel to the Olympic Games in Rio later this year and I will keenly follow his progress in this regard."

Carel du Preez and Werner Kok will both miss out on playing in Paris and London due to injury but second-placed South Africa are still hopeful of winning the overall Series.

"The squad all are working nicely together and we are keen to give it our best shot," Powell said. "We have some good depth and will work hard this week to be in the best shape come Paris."