Rugby World Cup final hero Deon Fourie not done yet

The year is 2022 and at 35 years old, Fourie was well into the twilight years of his career. But a fantastic run of form, skill in multiple positions and strong leadership capabilities led to him being called up to the Springboks squad, after which he became the oldest player to make a Bok debut.

Fourie's unlikely journey continued all the way to France, where he found himself on the bench in a World Cup final. The brave Boks Brains Trust had gone with the 7-1 split. But his seat was barely warm when starting hooker Bongi Mbonambi injured his knee, forcing an early change.

Battle-hardened Fourie was the first to celebrate when the Boks won the RWC and his journey has since continued with the Stormers, running out eight times before a knee injury in April.

The stalwart went under the knife and is targeting returning to the Stormers jersey in November. Talking on the Boks Office podcast this week, the 38-year-old revealed more.

"I've been fortunate enough in my 18-year career that I haven't been out for more than three months ever for an injury, so it is going to be the first time for nine months," said the World Cup winner.

"There are ups and downs. It goes well and then the knee puffs up and then you are two weeks back, so emotionally and mentally it's a bit of a struggle.

"It's going better. In the last few weeks, I started running straight lines and then you are feeling like you are getting there. I've got the boots back on the feet so that helps a lot.

"The goal is the end of November against the Sharks away. But there is no rush. I will make sure it is 100 percent.

"I'm contracted until July next year, so let's see how I look when I get back. There is a lot of young talent coming through as well, so it will be a gamble for the coaching staff. Somewhere they must hand over the baton."

Fourie was not called up to any Springbok alignment camps this year, meaning his heroic acts in the final could have been his last in the green and gold.

But for the 38-year-old father of two - who still plays an integral role at the Stormers - he's probably ok with that.

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