Rugby: Pretorius to miss Crusaders clash

Springboks first five-eighth Andre Pretorius remains hamstrung and will miss the Lions' Super 14 rugby match against the Crusaders at Johannesburg on Sunday morning (NZ time).

A scan to assess the extent of a hamstring injury revealed a tear hasn't healed properly, ruling the Lions captain and playmaker ruled out of his third consecutive match at Ellis Park.

His career has been plagued by injury and it was hoped that after missing the opening loss to the Waratahs and win last weekend over the Highlanders he would be fit.

The news is positive for the Crusaders, who have had problems containing the elusive Pretorius in previous matches between the two teams.

The Lions are confident Pretorius will be fit enough to accompany the team when they leave on their overseas tour next week for matches against the Western Force, Reds, Blues and Chiefs.

- NZPA