South Africa
Bulls omit Victor Matfield from Stormers trial team
ESPN Staff
January 31, 2014
South Africa's Victor Matfield salutes the Loftus Versfeld crowd, South Africa v Australia, Tri-Nations, Loftus Versfeld, South Africa, August 28, 2010
Matfield enjoyed a remarkable career with the Springboks © Getty Images
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Victor Matfield has been omitted from the Bulls team to play the Stormers in their Super Rugby pre-season trial in Polokwane on Saturday, but he is still expected to play "a few minutes off the bench".

Matfield's absence is reported to be a result of a few "hiccups regarding his contract", but Beeld reported the details should be finalised before the weekend.

Matfield retired after Rugby World Cup 2011, having won 110 caps for South Africa, but he recently announced his comeback - and will reportedly use the 2014 Super Rugby tournament to prove to Springboks coach Heyneke Meyer that he can still cut the mustard at international level.

The return will have added significance for Matfield, who was born in the city of Polokwane. He has remained in the game in recent years as a television pundit and as the Bulls' lineout coach, but he is now taking the unprecedented step back into the game after nearly three years out.

Matfield returned to training with the Stormers on Tuesday afternoon.

© ESPN Sports Media Ltd

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