Derick Hougaard: Rassie and Springboks wish ill ‘Liefling’ a speedy recovery

Rassie Erasmus has spoken fondly about the indisposed Derick Hougaard and has wished him and his family well on behalf of the Springboks.

Hougaard has now been in a coma for over 10 days, having been rushed to hospital after reportedly feeling nauseous after going to sleep on Friday, 9 June.

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The 40-year-old is now being monitored around the clock in ICU at Steve Biko Academic Hospital, where his partner Nádine says he is receiving the best possible care.

SPRINGBOK CAMP COMMENTS ON DERICK HOUGAARD SITUATION

Speaking during the Springboks’ press conference earlier this week, Erasmus, who played and coached against Hougaard, explained he does not know much about the former Test flyhalf’s condition except that he is in a critical condition.

But Erasmus nonetheless wanted to let the Hougaard family know that they are in the everyone in the Springboks’ camp’s thoughts and prayers and they wish him a speedy recovery.

“I don’t know exactly the situation and don’t know 100% what is going on there,” Erasmus said.

“But he has been in Pretoria, and I played against him many times where I had to catch his kickoffs. That first one was always hanging on the six or seven flankers, and you had Bakkies (Botha) and those guys chasing at you.

“It was always tough (playing against a team with Hougaard). I do not know what his battle is currently. We just hope he and his family are okay, and we can only pray and send our love to them.”

WATCH: RASSIE ERASMUS WISH LIEFLING WELL ON BEHALF OF SPRINGBOKS

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DERICK HOUGAARD WAS A COLOURFUL CHARACTER ON AND OFF THE FIELD

He played eight Tests for the Springboks, making his debut against Uruguay in Perth during the 2003 Rugby World Cup.

Hougaard played his final Test against the All Blacks in Christchurch in July 2007.

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He scored 69 points for the Springboks thanks to two tries, 13 conversions, 10 penalties and one drop goal and was on the winning side in four of his Tests.

The 40-year-old also made more than 100 appearances for the Bulls between 2002 and 2008 and is known as the “Liefling of Loftus” after performing a crucial role in a golden era for the Pretoria franchise.

Since hanging up his boots, Hougaard has tried his hand at a career in the NFL and took part in a celebrity boxing match against South African musician Francois van Coke.

He has also reportedly been working on a documentary on his life.

The South African website extends its thoughts and wishes to Hougaard.

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‘LIEFLING’ LINES UP A KICK AY GOAL