Bulls loose forward Lappies Labuschagne will be sidelined for at least eight weeks after sustaining an ankle injury.

Following consultations with various specialists on Thursday, Bulls team doctor Herman Rossouw confirmed Labuschagne will undergo surgery, ruling him out of the opening rounds of Super Rugby.

'After weighing up all the facts and opinions of the various specialists, we came to the decision that Lappies will be operated on on Monday,' said Rossouw.

Rossouw also confirmed that Lizo Gqoboka has withdrawn from the Bulls team to face the Lions in Saturday's pre-season friendly in Polokwane due to a groin injury.

The prop, however, will be fit and available for selection for the Bulls' opening Super Rugby match against the Stormers at Newlands on 27 February. 

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