Bok coach Heyneke Meyer says Jaque Fourie probably won't return to international rugby.

The 32-year-old announced his retirement at the end of last year, but after discussions between himself, the Springboks and his Japanese club (the Kobe Steelers), an agreement was reached so that he would be available for one last season of Test rugby.

Fourie was named in the Springbok squad in June, but was then released back to his Japanese club, where it was stated that he would continue to work on his fitness.

Earlier this week, Springbok doctor Craig Roberts said there were no medical reasons preventing Fourie’s availability, and in Durban on Wednesday, Meyer clarified Fourie's position.

‘Jaque will probably not be available, although he’s on stand-by … Jesse [Kriel] has come through brilliantly, I had a good chat with Jaque again and he is available if we’re in trouble. But Jesse’s come through, Damian [de Allende] can play at 13, so can Jean [de Villiers]. Then we still have Jan [Serfontein] who played [at outside centre] last year, and JP [Pietersen] can play at 13. Although he [Fourie] is available, he probably won’t be selected.’

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