Injured lock Flip van der Merwe and flanker Heinrich Brussow have been ruled out of the Springboks squad for Saturday's Tri-Nations Test against New Zealand.

Van der Merwe is returning to South Africa with a rib injury, adding to the Springboks' second row shortage after the loss of Johann Muller to a hamstring strain.

France-based lock Gerhard Mostert has replaced Muller but no replacement will be sought for van der Merwe.

Brussow has a hamstring strain but will remain with the squad to continue his rehabilitation, coach Peter de Villiers said.

Gio Aplon did not practice for a second day Tuesday because of back and shoulder injuries, with de Villiers saying the fullback also was doubtful for Saturday's match.

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