Burger eyes early return

Burger: Up and running

South Africa star Schalk Burger hopes to be back in action a lot sooner than initially expected.

The flank had an operation to repair torn ligaments in his right knee a month ago, and this week he started running for the first time.

At his current rate of recovery, Burger is set to be back in action against Italy on June 21.

"I'm feeling fine - I just can't wait to get back," he told SuperSport TV after joining the Springboks for light training in Stellenbosch.

Hookers Schalk Brits and wing JP Pietersen have also resumed training with the squad .