Bulls winger Bjorn Basson will return to South Africa on Wednesday following his successful recovery from an operation in Christchurch, New Zealand.

Basson injured his intestines during the Super Rugby play-off match between the Bulls and Crusaders on 21 July and was kept in hospital till now after undergoing an operation to repair the damage.

"Bjorn has recovered well and is on his way back," Bulls team doctor, Org Strauss confirmed on Monday.

Strauss also confirmed that Lionel Cronje has been declared fit following successful rehabilitation of his pectoral muscle and that he will be available for the Blue Bulls in the Currie Cup competition that kicks off on 10 August.

Johann Sadie (ankle), Jean Cooke (knee), Chiliboy Ralepelle (knee) and Dewald Potgieter (shoulder, above) are all recovering from their respective injuries and could still be out of action for at least two weeks and hence miss the opening match of the competition against Griquas.

Basson (6-8 weeks) and Fudge Mabeta (8-12 weeks, knee) are the only long term casualties.