Springbok Schalk Burger out of Ireland tour

Schalk Burger will miss South Africa's three-Test series with Ireland after being ruled out for up to five weeks with an ankle injury.

The 33-year-old forward took a knock to his ankle during last weekend's Stormers clash against Bulls, although he was able to finish the Super Rugby encounter.

However, scans have revealed the full extent of his injury and Stormers coach Robbie Fleck confirmed Burger would be absent for next month's encounters with Joe Schmidt's side.

"I think he has always got Springbok ambitions," Fleck said.

"He's a quality Springbok and he approaches every week like he wants to play for the Springboks.

"The injury is a blow."

Burger – who will join Saracens next season – has 86 international caps and was part of the Springboks squad to win the 2007 Rugby World Cup.