Warren Whiteley could be fit for the start of the Springboks' Rugby Championship campaign.

The Bok captain is recovering from a groin injury, which saw him miss the third Test against France in June.

Whiteley was also ruled out of the Super Rugby playoffs, and Bok team doctor Konrad von Hagen confirmed that the No 8 would not be able to play in next weekend's Super Rugby final, should the Lions beat the Hurricanes on Saturday.

'Warren’s injury requires time to heal and he will hopefully recover in time for the Rugby Championship, but at this stage, we are taking it week by week in conjunction with the medical team of the Lions,' he said.

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Meanwhile, Bok flyhalf Handré Pollard is making good progress, following his recent minor ankle procedure.

'Handré has started with some running exercises and he will continue with his gradual loading programme,' said Von Hagen.

'He took part in some training sessions and did extra rehabilitation and fitness exercises. We will continue to monitor his progress and his return to play on a weekly basis. I am also happy with the condition of the overall group.'

Photo: Anne Laing/HM Images