Rugby Union: Teichmann set for return

GARY TEICHMANN will almost certainly play for and captain South Africa in Saturday's one-off Test against Wales at the Millennium Stadium.

Teichmann, who missed Saturday's 101-0 victory over Italy, suffered a "knock on the knee" in the first Test victory over the Italians 10 days ago. But last night the South African assistant coach, Alan Solomons, said: "Gary should be OK for Saturday. He took a knock on the knee and as a precautionary measure we left him out of the side against Italy.

"Nick [Mallett] will name the side on Wednesday and at this moment we are confident everyone will be available for selection. There are one of two bumps and bruises, as you might expect, but that's all."

Saturday's success over Italy has certainly sent a warning to Wales, who will today name a side which is likely to include David Young at tight- head prop and Colin Charvis on the blind-side flank. Scott Gibbs is hoping to make his return after breaking a thumb and damaging his sternum at the end of the domestic season.

Solomons said: "Wales have played some wonderful rugby in recent games. They nearly beat us at Wembley in November and they have won their last five games - all of them away from Cardiff."