Cornal Hendricks will play for the Africa Pacific Dragons in the World Club 10s in Mauritius in June.

The former Bok wing was diagnosed with a heart ailment in 2016 and was not given contracts at French club Toulon and the Bulls, due to medical reasons.

However, he insists he is 'over the worst' and ready to play again.

'For a long time I could hardly sleep at night, not because I was hungry and couldn't pay my bills, but because I know there is nothing wrong with me and no one would give me a chance. It was so frustrating,' he said.

'My faith pulled me through. I stay fit and I believe that I will get another chance to play at the highest level again.

'I look at a guy like [Kings wing] Alshaun Bock, and take inspiration. He made his Super Rugby debut at 34, but he never gave up.

'I come from a disadvantaged area and I tell people who I work with in my foundation that I not only play for myself, but for them. I want to give hope to underprivileged children and say, “It doesn’t matter where you come from, you can make it in the world”.

'I just want to get back in the game because something that worries me is that I don’t want to waste my God-given talent.

'I have a breakthrough again in Mauritius to show my worth. Time is running out. I’m not getting any younger.

'There have been times I wanted to give up and throw the towel in. But the desire to be on the field is still burning inside me and I can’t let it go.'

The Africa Pacific Dragons will have former Bok lock Victor Matfield on their coaching staff, while Japan’s Kubota Spears, who are making their debut at the tournament, are coached by South African Frans Ludeke.

The Bulls and Cheetahs have been confirmed as South Africa's representatives, with the Brumbies and Force flying Australia's flag.

English club side Harlequins and French combined unit the Pyrenees Rugby Seven (PR7) complete the eight-team lineup.

Photo: Hagen Hopkins/Getty Images