Bulls head coach Jake White says Cornal Hendricks is busy resolving legal issues with SA Rugby that may have prevented his selection for the Springboks.

Hendricks has starred for the Bulls under White, moving into the inside-centre position and helping the team claim the Super Rugby Unlocked and Currie Cup titles, as well as top the Rainbow Cup SA log.

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Having last played for the Springboks in 2015, before he was forced into semi-retirement due to a heart condition, many pundits believe Hendricks has done enough to earn a recall to the 45-man squad for the British & Irish Lions series.

When White was asked about Hendricks’ chances of getting into the Bok squad, he explained that there had been a dispute between the 33-year-old and SA Rugby, which is being resolved.

‘There is work at play with him and SA Rugby, to sort out that whole dispute they had,’ White said. ‘Once that happens, there will be openness with SA Rugby to include him.

‘I think it’s difficult when you have a guy like him who is, I think he had a litigation incident now with them.

‘But he has seen the light. I have chatted to him and told him don’t go and lose opportunities. I am hoping that common sense will prevail. The process has already started. SA Rugby and whoever is involved in decisions have met with Cornal and his legal staff.

‘It all bodes well for South Africa. He has got so much to offer. He can play so many positions. He’s so experienced and has played sevens. I am hoping that in the next couple of days, if he misses out, we can sort something out so that at least he gets another crack.

‘It’s very difficult for me to give the details. But he is on the same page and appreciates that he doesn’t want to miss opportunities now that he is enjoying his rugby and playing so well.’

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